The Chatham-Kent Police Service is considering expanding its chaplaincy services to other faiths.
Police said it's an issue that has been contemplated for many years but never came to fruition because the demand hasn't been there and the population in the Chatham area is mainly Christian.
Board members were told this week the issue will be explored over the coming months and that local police will reach out to the various faith leaders to join the program, including those of the Muslim and Jewish faiths and Indigenous leadership. A report presented to the board stated that CKPS chaplains are already trained in inter-faith religious beliefs and customs.
"Chatham-Kent continues to be on the leading edge of police chaplaincy in Ontario," said CKPS Chaplain Michael Koppes as he presented the report.
The suggestion came from Vice-Chair Marjorie Crew and Police Chief Gary Conn said it's a very worthwhile idea.
"We are a very welcoming and inclusive community and we want to make sure that all faiths are covered within our community," the chief said.
Chatham-Kent police currently have nine ordained chaplains of different denominations. They are sworn-in and volunteer throughout the municipality. Their activities include ride-a-longs, callouts, death notifications, police ceremonies, training days, prayer days, team leaders meetings, Remembrance Day ceremonies, memorial services, police family funerals and weddings, and many charitable activities.
Police said chaplains, due to their vocation, life experience and training, offer valuable support and insight in assisting police officers and their families and provide a much-needed service to the community.
"Police officers are confronted with many situations that demoralize and create emotional, mental and spiritual stress to them and their loved ones. An officer or their family member may need to discuss his or her problems with someone who understands what he or she is experiencing yet is detached enough not to be emotionally involved or in a position that might affect the officer’s career," said police.
Police added chaplains are on call 24 hours a day seven days a week on a rotating basis and log countless hours providing outstanding service to the Chatham-Kent Police Service and the community.
"They are truly an integral part of this police service," said police.
