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[quote=Anonymous]I've looked into this previously. There are big differences in Western religions and Eastern religions when it comes to priesthood.  It's very easy to become recognized universally as a 'professional' in Abrahamic religions.  There are many Masters in Divinity courses and Seminaries.

In Hinduism, there aren't these "Master's" or "PhD" programs that give out a certificate of credentials.  You must study and meditate on the scriptures for years and be highly proficient in Sanskrit and the numerous scriptures as well as the incredible number of prayers, shlokas, stotrams, etc.  We generally do this at home, at the temple or under the guidance of a guru.  There isn't a institutional style seminary equivalent in Hinduism.

You can become an Acharya or take Sannyasi but you won't have that signed letter from a university that provides some sort of authoritative distinction and there is traditionally no role that is equivalent to "chaplain" in Hinduism which is why there is such a gap in this area in America.

But it is definitely possible! Here are some links I bookmarked a while back, also try contacting HAF, they may have someone to direct you to-

Here's an article about one woman's journey-

http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=3088

Here's another- about the woman that served as a Hindu chaplain for the Army and at Georgetown (not currently)

http://www.lassiwithlavina.com/features/people/meet-the-us-armys-first-hindu-chaplain/html

This woman took 2 years of Clinical Pastoral Education on her journey

https://shamamehta.com/tag/hindu-chaplain/

This one has a phone number- it's from several years back so don't know if it's still active

https://www.vhp-america.org/sites/vhpa/files/programs-projects/files/Hindu%20Chaplaincy%20Presentation.pdf

If you're interested in learning more about the 2 year Vedanta programs in India (also there is one in Trinidad), I know several people that have gone- young Indian Americans like yourself- and it was life changing for them, let me know.  I can give you my email.

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