Since its inception in 1968, the Saint Paul Police Chaplain Program has served police officers and civilians in times of need. Whether assisting individuals in searching for spiritual or religious understanding, or offering a compassionate, and caring presence to those in difficult circumstances, the Police Chaplains provide a range of support to those in need. In addition to providing pastoral care and ministry to Saint Paul Police Officers, Police Chaplains have been called upon to assist officers in rendering assistance to victims, family members, and other civilians with whom police officers come into contact.
The program is non-denominational. Chaplains come from a variety of faiths and belief systems, and offer practical and spiritual guidance to everyone irrespective of their religious affiliation. Chaplains provide ministry to those who seek it, without imposing their religious identities on those served.
Commitment:
The Saint Paul Police Department Chaplain Program holds itself to the highest of ethical and professional standards. Police Chaplains must be prepared to commit fully to the standards of the program and its mission of service. Police Chaplains are expected to:
- Minister to officers, employees, and family members of the Saint Paul Police Department
- Behave in an ethical and professional manner while offering comfort, spiritual guidance and other assistance to the community members of Saint Paul
- Conversations with a Chaplain must remain confidential.
- Participate in roll-calls and meetings with officers and other department employees and ride with officers on patrol
- Commit 120 hours per year to the program
- Carry a cell phone at all times, so they may be reached in times of emergency, and respond within 30 minutes of being called
- Wear the SPPD-issued clothing and ID when working as a SPPD Chaplain
- Each Chaplain is required to conduct herself/himself in a manner that fosters great ecumenism with places of worship other than his/her own as we attempt to win the goodwill of all.
Mission:
To promote the spiritual, religious, moral, corporate and personal well-being of the members of the Saint Paul Police Department, and to offer comfort, guidance, and support to the civilians of Saint Paul.
Vision:
To promote an effective and cooperative relationship between the Saint Paul Police Department and the public, by offering tools of communication, empathy, reconciliation, and prayer. The Saint Paul Police Department Chaplain Program embraces diversity. Working in a pluralistic environment, the Saint Paul Police Department Chaplain Program, comprised of Chaplains from a variety of religious faith communities, welcomes, affirms and celebrates its diversity.
How to Apply:
In order to be considered for service with the Chaplain Program, applicants must:
- Provide valid ministry credentials
- Provide a letter of support from the applicant’s faith-based organization
- Complete a background investigation
- Interview with the Coordinator of Chaplains or his/her designee
