Police officers often say to chaplains that " I wouldn't do the difficult work you do for anything !" They are trained and able to face armed robbers or investigate an accident. But a sobbing parent at a SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)incident can erase even the most stoic officer's composure.

Entering that saddest of moments is no easier for a chaplain, but the chaplain brings experience, training and skills to the tragedy that are as specialized as the law enforcement resources every officer develops with training and experience.

As a team, both chaplain and officer make an important difference in the lives of persons touched by tragedy. We work together.

The chaplain is "chaplain" for everyone, not the religious leader of a perticular tradition serving a particular congregation.

Chaplains serve many personal and spiritual needs of individuals where they are, when they need the support of another person who comes to them without judgment, with openness, and cares for them until the crisis moment is over.

Chaplains respect the persons they serve, even though there may be profound differences in race, gender, economic status, religious experience and many other factors.

Chaplains can be called at any hour, in all kinds of weather. Mostly, they listen. But they also comfort people who are shaking with fear with a gentle touch...or perhaps, if someone asks, a prayer will be offered in guarded privacy to support the trembling of spirit that comes in difficult moments.

Chaplains also understand the difficulties of public bureaucracies, assiting with the "red tape" moments of life for officers and the public alike. They spend many hours riding as active passengers with officers on patrol duty.

They also participate in a wide variety of training programs with their officer partners. Often chaplains are asked to teach classes on dealing with stress, family life, relationships, ethics, and other issues.

For more information regarding Chaplains visit:
International Conference of Police Chaplains