Ontario Police Chaplains Making an Impact in Belleville
On November 5th, a police chaplain hosted event took place in Belleville, Ontario, to promote community safety, healing, and harmony; the event included a prayer walk and prayers of gratitude and protection for the members of the Belleville Police Service.
Spearheaded by Belleville Police Chaplain Brad Beale (squatting in top photo), York Regional Police Chaplain Mansfield Edwards (middle of photo) also attended to support Belleville Police Administrators and Officers, as well as Fire & Ambulance First Responders. While TPS has been conducting prayer walks and gatherings for several years (inspired by TPS Chaplain Wendell Gibbs), this was the first of what may become an annual event in Belleville, ON.
Representatives from multi-faith groups including faith leaders from Jewish, Buddhist, Sikh, and Hindu communities joined in unity to support and pray for First Responders. Community leaders also included members of City Council and the Mayor-Elect. A large crowd gathered and participated in the prayer walk demonstrating public support for First Responders and the importance of prayer.
Congratulations Belleville PS Chaplain Brad Beale for a successful event; one example of how police chaplains throughout Canada are serving and making a difference within their community.
"LEST WE FORGET"
Today, Remembrance Day, we pause across our nation of Canada, to remember with respect, and honour the lives of the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Remembrance Day is more than a corporate gesture; it is our dedication with respect to honour our soldiers' selfless services. We will not forget their courage; their death for our freedom. Whether we pray in public or in private, we stand together to honour the brave across our nation.
On behalf of our CPCA National Leadership Team, I express our gratitude to every police chaplain, of each faith group, who has attended Remembrance Day services to honour our soldiers while standing alongside police and first responders. Perhaps you had the privilege of laying a wreath today, or you simply stood in silence, your presence was appreciated by the men and women who serve and protect our Canadian communities.
Lest We Forget,
Bruce Ewanyshyn
CPCA President
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