The Iowa State Patrol established a Chaplain Program on September 17, 1984 under the leadership of Colonel Frank Metzger. At that time, there were 23 chaplains who volunteered state-wide from various religious denominations.

The purpose of the Chaplain Program within the Iowa State Patrol is to offer friendship, support and spiritual help to those of the organization and the men and women they will come in contract with through their daily activity. The law enforcement Chaplain is a clergyperson with special interest and training for providing pastoral care in the high powered and dangerous world of law enforcement. This pastoral care is offered to all people, regardless of race, gender, orientation, national origin, creed, or religion. It is offered without cost or the threat of proselytizing. The place of the Chaplain is to help, support, listen, work with, and guide those who face such situations.

These men and women are not sworn peace officers and volunteer their services to the Patrol. Chaplains are requested to ride with Troopers to familiarize themselves with the Troopers and their duties. Chaplains are called upon at times to assist with death notifications, hospital visitations of active and retired members, counseling with officers and family members and instruction at the Department of Public Safety Basic Academy.

Currently, the program has 33 Chaplains serving the Patrol throughout the State.  Ministry takes money.  The Home Town Missionary provides funds to the State Patrol chaplains for ministry needs that the State will not or cannot provide.