Rear Admiral Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben

Denomination: Presbyterian Church (USA) (PCUSA)
Organization: The Office of the Chaplain, U.S. House of Representatives

Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben

Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben is a distinguished Presbyterian minister and retired Rear Admiral who currently serves as the Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives. Appointed to this historic role in 2021, Dr. Kibben is the first woman to serve as chaplain for either chamber of Congress. In her first days on duty, she notably provided spiritual leadership and support during the 2021 Capitol siege, offering prayers for peace and resilience amidst the unrest.

Dr. Kibben’s distinguished career includes groundbreaking service as the 26th Chief of Chaplains of the United States Navy, where she was the senior advisor on religious matters to Navy leadership, including the Secretary of the Navy, Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Chief of Naval Operations. Previously, she also served as the 18th Chaplain of the U.S. Marine Corps. Throughout her career, Dr. Kibben has been a pioneer, holding the distinction of being the first woman in these prominent chaplaincy roles.

A native of Warrington, Pennsylvania, Dr. Kibben holds a Bachelor of Arts from Goucher College, a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College. Her various assignments with the Navy and Marine Corps spanned the U.S. and overseas, including leadership as command chaplain in Afghanistan, Fleet Chaplain of the U.S. Third Fleet, and senior chaplain at the U.S. Naval Academy. Her personal military awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Bronze Star, and multiple Meritorious Service Medals.

In her current role with the U.S. House, Dr. Kibben is known for her deep commitment to compassionate ministry, offering a steady presence for members of Congress, their staff, and Capitol personnel. She also serves on boards for institutions including Princeton Theological Seminary and the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. Dr. Kibben’s personal ministry reflects a lifetime of dedication to service, faith, and spiritual resilience in times of both peace and crisis.

For more information on Dr. Kibben’s work and background, visit The Office of the Chaplain, U.S. House of Representatives.