 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
LAW ENFORCEMENT CHAPLAINCY
The Need ... Law enforcement officers are faced with split-
second decisions, situations creating frustration, criticism for doing their jobs, and other anxieties. These create problems for the officers and their families, which affect their family life and job performance. The chaplain responds to these unique personal, needs with spiritual guidance.
The Target ...The chaplain offers support to law enforcement
Officers, the administration, support staff, victims and their families.
The Process ... The steps for beginning a law enforcement
chaplaincy are as follows:1. Pray for God’s leadership.
2. Schedule a meeting with the chief of police, sheriff, or the person in charge.
3. Meet an discuss the needs.
4. Share ways a volunteer chaplain meets the needs.
5. Define the expectations of the department and the chaplain.
6. Follow up the meeting with a letter outlining the agreement.
7. Recruit a chaplain and secure departmental approval.
8. Set a starting time and begin the ministry.
9. Evaluate with the department periodically..
The Ministry… Chaplains provide support and spiritual
guidance for law enforcement and staff personnel through:
MINISTRY OF PRESENCE
Chaplains regularly visit the station for personal contact with law enforcement personnel and staff. They build trusting relationships and establish credibility. Riding with the officers on their shifts, when allowed, is vital to a successful ministry.
COUNSELING
Chaplains provide guidance and confidential counseling for personal, family, and job-related problems. They refer those in need of professional help to qualified Christian counselors..
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Chaplains assist families of officers/staff personnel/victims in times of serious injury, illness or death. They respond immediately to emergency situations involving departmental personnel and victims.
REFERRAL SERVICES
Chaplains maintain an updated list of spiritual and social service providers, to whom they refer departmental personnel, victims, and their families..
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Chaplains conduct worship services/Bible studies as needed. They offer invocations and benedictions at academy graduations, award ceremonies, and civic and social events, as requested.
WEDDINGS/FUNERALS
Often the chaplain is the only minister with whom a law enforcement can relate. Occasionally, the chaplain is asked to conduct weddings and funerals by the officers or their families. The chaplain responds to the need as an opportunity for ministry and witness.
TRAINING
Chaplains participate in basic law enforcement training. They sometimes become training resource leaders.
The Reason… Law enforcement officers need someone toassist them with death messages, suicide attempts and emotionally upset persons. They also need someone to care for them personally. Chaplains meet the needs.