Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, Rear Admiral, USN, CHC (Ret)
Denomination: Presbyterian Church (USA) (PCUSA)
Organization: The Office of the Chaplain, U.S. House of Representatives
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, in her first days on duty, Dr. Kibben notably provided spiritual leadership and support during the events of January 6th, 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 several boards including Princeton Theological Seminary. 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.
Day1 Weekly Programs by Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, Rear Admiral, USN, CHC (Ret)
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Pray for THEM?! - Episode #4256
Tuesday October 13, 2026
Join us for Day1 Episode 4256 with Rear Admiral Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, the 62nd Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C., as she preaches "Pray for THEM?!" from Matthew 22:15-22. Drawing on her unique calling, Dr. Kibben explores Jesus' answer to a political trap: the coin bears Caesar's image, but we bear God's. On this 21st Sunday after Pentecost, she calls us to civic responsibility and to pray for the leaders we like and the ones we don't. Tune in for a hopeful word on faith, citizenship, and prayer.
Give and Take - Episode #4155
Tuesday November 05, 2024
Join us for Episode 4155 as Rear Admiral Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives, unpacks a profound message of faith, resilience, and divine provision in her sermon, "Give and Take." Reflecting on 1 Kings 17:8-16, Dr. Kibben explores God’s unwavering commitment to provide even when hope seems lost, weaving insights from the widow's story of trust and sacrifice. Through personal reflections, Dr. Kibben challenges us to consider how faith and gratitude shape our response to hardship. Listen in for an inspiring message that encourages deeper reliance on God’s provision.
Articles by Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, Rear Admiral, USN, CHC (Ret)
Prayers in the Storm: U.S. House Chaplain Reflects on Division and Hope
Tuesday November 05, 2024
In this candid interview excerpt, Rear Admiral Rev. Dr. Margaret Kibben, Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives, shares her experience serving America’s leaders on January 6th and offers insights on finding unity and hope amid division. Discover her journey of faith in the midst of a time of crisis.