Quote of the Quarter: “Less stuff = more life“
The Role of a Chaplain
A chaplain’s primary role is to help connect people with God. There is no cookie cutter way to accomplish this, but it is certainly influenced by the trust that develops between the chaplain and officers. •Confidentiality is KEY!
The chaplain makes themself constantly available to assist with any need the officer may have. Over time the officers decide if the chaplain is worthy of their trust and if they can be called upon when trouble hits. Chaplains build a reputation of being trustworthy and a safe place to express thoughts, opinions, or ask questions that wouldn’t be asked to someone outside of the circle of trust. No matter what the situation, the chaplain functions as a supporter and backup for the officer.
Sometimes the chaplain’s role is to sit quietly in a patrol car, other times it’s listening to a challenge in the officer’s home life. Sometimes it’s standing respectfully next to them in a doorway while they inform someone their loved one has died or providing a prayer if requested.
It’s been said, trust can take years to develop, but just a moment to break. For that reason, a chaplain is always “on duty” and aware that their words and actions will impact their ministry of connection long past the moment they are in.
The Focus of a Chaplain
Focus of response is first secular in nature, then spiritual. The focus of their attention is on the officer and their needs above the faith traditions of the chaplain. The chaplains exhibit servant leadership. They are ecumenical in the sense that they are open to people of all faiths and beliefs, and are available to help people at any point on their spiritual journey.
The chaplain’s communication style is to listen and learn, then talk. They recognize they are a guest in the patrol vehicle or office and are respectful of the privilege of their position.
My view of my role is that I get to hang out with really cool people, encourage lives, drive fast with blue and red lights flashing, see really cool things, and write no reports. It is truly a ministry of presence and non-judgemental relationships.
Code 7 chaplains steer cops to REST – REFLECT – RENEW.
NCPD Men’s Health “Movember” Patch
In support of Men’s Health Month “Movember”, the National City Police Department designed and authorized a special patch to be worn during November. The patch brings awareness and shows support for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Great job, NCPD, for your bold patch design!
Perspective Matters
When a critical incident takes place, often the public share their Monday morning quarterback style critique on social media. Most cops I know stay away from the news and limit their followers on social media. They don’t need more scrutiny on their performance because they are usually already hard on themselves.
One way to stay sane is to have an outlet unrelated to police work. Here is one way that seems effective – Holiday characters. A retired sergeant and new officer both took on personalities and got a lot of love from the public at recent appearances. That’s how to put some smiles on faces!
It Takes A Village
Sometimes cops are called into situations where they know the subject and their history. This can be both good and bad. Knowing who they are dealing with this time caused the officers to gather in full force and create a plan and contingency plans. They know the situation can go from calm to volatile in an instant. This specific incident played out well with one in custody. No problems – except for some K-9 poop on the Sgt’s boot.
Suspect went to jail and is not “just visiting”.
In Conclusion
It’s my hope and prayer that you can sense God‘s love in the details of your life next year. We have accomplished so much good together through Code 7 this year. Thank you for your support!
Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of — infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes. Ephesians 3:20 (TLB)
