Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Biblical Police Leadership: Are you a delegator or micro-manager?
RECAP from last week and PREVIEW of this week’s meeting:
We had a FULL house at last week’s meeting as we took a phrase from a popular movie and explored it biblically as it relates to those of serving both in law enforcement and as Christian men and women in general. In Gladiator, the fictitious character Maximus used the term “Strength and Honor” (Virtus et Honor in Latin) when addressing and encouraging his men before battle. The phrase was not a true Roman motto but rather represents an ideal. So how does Strength and Honor relate to us as Christians and as Christian warriors in particular?
Dr. Greg Bourgond (www.heartofawarrior.org) wrote an excellent short article on the subject that served as a template for our study. While Greg supplied a superb list of relevant scripture passages with his article, the text for our study centered around II Samuel 22:33-35 (God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places. He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze) and Psalm 144:1 (Blessed be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle).
So what is the meaning for all of us in this? Both passages are more about the fact that, for the true Christian, it is God who fights the battle for us. Throughout scripture, God’s people always found themselves in a mess when they tried to do things their way instead of God’s way. God repeatedly defeated Israel’s enemies for them so long as they trusted Him and were obedient to his laws and commands. In fact, these passages are less about actual physical combat than they about trusting God to empower us to “run to the battle” under His leadership in all aspects of our lives.
In addition, the Strength and Honor concept has great meaning for us in terms of moving us to not be “retired on duty” (ROD) when it comes to our faith. On this topic Greg writes,
"I am sick and tired of mediocre Christianity that never has truly believed and never has truly received. You would think I would be encouraged about the continual reports we hear of many people coming to a saving knowledge of Christ. If so many are coming to the Lord why aren't we having a greater impact on our culture? If you and I lived our lives with the same furiosity, intentionality, focus, and purpose as this pagan Roman general but for the cause of Christ what could we accomplish for the kingdom?"
Bottom line here is the biblical concept of Strength and Honor is central to our calling as God’s servant-warriors both on the job and at home. What about you? Are you a ROD spiritually? Please review Greg’s article and study the list of relevant Bible passages: http://www.heartofawarrior.org/Strength%20and%20Honor.pdf.
This week we’ll tackle another chapter from Col. Ray Fairman’s outstanding leadership series by exploring the art of delegation from a biblical view. We all know supervisors who make our lives miserable through micro-management, insecurity, and other related leadership flaws. The Bible has the answer! Join us Thursday as we continue our “field training” towards becoming godly leaders at home and on “the job.”
Until then, “Strength & Honour!”
UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE:
3/11/10 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver (www.calvarycsd.org for address/directions), Room #7.
3/18/10 NO MEETING (speaking at conference)
3/25/10 Same place/time as above.
4/01/10 Pre-Easter Meeting! Same place/time as above
UPDATED: Other New Law Enforcement Bible Study Groups (See the “Law Enforcement Ministry Sites” page on our website -- www.TheCenturionLawEnforcementMinistry.org -- for more):
(1) Ofc. Marcus Pulido of Alton, Illinois (near St. Louis) has started a PeaceKeepers study group. Check out their website and join them if you are in the Alton/St. Louis area: www.riverbendpeacekeepers.com. I’ve added their site link to our website.
(2) Grand Junction (CO) PD Ofc. Steve Huskey attended the FCPO conference in Colorado Springs last year and is being led to start a Bible study for law enforcement personnel in the GJ area. Steve can be contacted at huskey@bresnan.net.
(3) If you are in the Lewiston, Maine area, their FCPO chapter is meeting on March 13th. Contact Vito at wopcop@myfairpoint.net for more info.
(4) Last week I mentioned a group forming in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Contact Officer Chris Krieger at krieg77@hotmail.com for more info.
Speaking of law enforcement Bible studies, Dep. Mike Dye (author of The Peacekeepers – A Bible Study for Law Enforcement Officers) has posted his latest blog and it is EXCELLENT. Check out “Are you 10-8 in Service for God?” at http://christiancop.blogspot.com/.
PRAYER REQUESTS! Please take the time to read and pray:
(1) The son of a godly Colorado police chief who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Please pray (healing and other issues)!
(2) GJPD Officer Steve Huskey (see above) is heading back on duty after battling some painful and debilitating injuries. Thanks to all who prayed for him!
(3) Emily Dewey has posted an update on her husband’s status (wounded Deputy Chris Dewey of Mahnomen County, MN). Please keep them in prayer during this difficult transition period. See http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey.
(4) A colleague in Grand Junction writes, “Please pray for Lane Jochums who has fallen gravely ill while serving in Iraq and has been airlifted to Germany for treatment.” Lane is a former Fruita (CO) PD officer.
(5) Pray for an officer from here in the Denver area who can’t work until he undergoes hip surgery. This brother has no insurance and is in constant pain. Cost for the surgery is $71,000!
(6) Continue to pray for a Western Slope colleague who is battling a plethora of cancer-related issues. She is a “trooper” but needs our prayers and support.
(7) Pray for a local officer who is on the verge of losing his job due in part to a lack of true servant-leadership in his agency.
(8) Continue to pray (salvation, healing, etc.) for the girlfriend of a Los Angeles PD officer. She was severely burned in an accident and is currently in an induced coma.
(9) Finally, pray for me as I prepare to speak at an upcoming retreat/conference at Glen Eyrie in Colorado Springs later this month.
Stay safe and LEAD biblically!
We had a FULL house at last week’s meeting as we took a phrase from a popular movie and explored it biblically as it relates to those of serving both in law enforcement and as Christian men and women in general. In Gladiator, the fictitious character Maximus used the term “Strength and Honor” (Virtus et Honor in Latin) when addressing and encouraging his men before battle. The phrase was not a true Roman motto but rather represents an ideal. So how does Strength and Honor relate to us as Christians and as Christian warriors in particular?
Dr. Greg Bourgond (www.heartofawarrior.org) wrote an excellent short article on the subject that served as a template for our study. While Greg supplied a superb list of relevant scripture passages with his article, the text for our study centered around II Samuel 22:33-35 (God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places. He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze) and Psalm 144:1 (Blessed be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle).
So what is the meaning for all of us in this? Both passages are more about the fact that, for the true Christian, it is God who fights the battle for us. Throughout scripture, God’s people always found themselves in a mess when they tried to do things their way instead of God’s way. God repeatedly defeated Israel’s enemies for them so long as they trusted Him and were obedient to his laws and commands. In fact, these passages are less about actual physical combat than they about trusting God to empower us to “run to the battle” under His leadership in all aspects of our lives.
In addition, the Strength and Honor concept has great meaning for us in terms of moving us to not be “retired on duty” (ROD) when it comes to our faith. On this topic Greg writes,
"I am sick and tired of mediocre Christianity that never has truly believed and never has truly received. You would think I would be encouraged about the continual reports we hear of many people coming to a saving knowledge of Christ. If so many are coming to the Lord why aren't we having a greater impact on our culture? If you and I lived our lives with the same furiosity, intentionality, focus, and purpose as this pagan Roman general but for the cause of Christ what could we accomplish for the kingdom?"
Bottom line here is the biblical concept of Strength and Honor is central to our calling as God’s servant-warriors both on the job and at home. What about you? Are you a ROD spiritually? Please review Greg’s article and study the list of relevant Bible passages: http://www.heartofawarrior.org/Strength%20and%20Honor.pdf.
This week we’ll tackle another chapter from Col. Ray Fairman’s outstanding leadership series by exploring the art of delegation from a biblical view. We all know supervisors who make our lives miserable through micro-management, insecurity, and other related leadership flaws. The Bible has the answer! Join us Thursday as we continue our “field training” towards becoming godly leaders at home and on “the job.”
Until then, “Strength & Honour!”
UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE:
3/11/10 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver (www.calvarycsd.org for address/directions), Room #7.
3/18/10 NO MEETING (speaking at conference)
3/25/10 Same place/time as above.
4/01/10 Pre-Easter Meeting! Same place/time as above
UPDATED: Other New Law Enforcement Bible Study Groups (See the “Law Enforcement Ministry Sites” page on our website -- www.TheCenturionLawEnforcementMinistry.org -- for more):
(1) Ofc. Marcus Pulido of Alton, Illinois (near St. Louis) has started a PeaceKeepers study group. Check out their website and join them if you are in the Alton/St. Louis area: www.riverbendpeacekeepers.com. I’ve added their site link to our website.
(2) Grand Junction (CO) PD Ofc. Steve Huskey attended the FCPO conference in Colorado Springs last year and is being led to start a Bible study for law enforcement personnel in the GJ area. Steve can be contacted at huskey@bresnan.net.
(3) If you are in the Lewiston, Maine area, their FCPO chapter is meeting on March 13th. Contact Vito at wopcop@myfairpoint.net for more info.
(4) Last week I mentioned a group forming in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Contact Officer Chris Krieger at krieg77@hotmail.com for more info.
Speaking of law enforcement Bible studies, Dep. Mike Dye (author of The Peacekeepers – A Bible Study for Law Enforcement Officers) has posted his latest blog and it is EXCELLENT. Check out “Are you 10-8 in Service for God?” at http://christiancop.blogspot.com/.
PRAYER REQUESTS! Please take the time to read and pray:
(1) The son of a godly Colorado police chief who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Please pray (healing and other issues)!
(2) GJPD Officer Steve Huskey (see above) is heading back on duty after battling some painful and debilitating injuries. Thanks to all who prayed for him!
(3) Emily Dewey has posted an update on her husband’s status (wounded Deputy Chris Dewey of Mahnomen County, MN). Please keep them in prayer during this difficult transition period. See http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey.
(4) A colleague in Grand Junction writes, “Please pray for Lane Jochums who has fallen gravely ill while serving in Iraq and has been airlifted to Germany for treatment.” Lane is a former Fruita (CO) PD officer.
(5) Pray for an officer from here in the Denver area who can’t work until he undergoes hip surgery. This brother has no insurance and is in constant pain. Cost for the surgery is $71,000!
(6) Continue to pray for a Western Slope colleague who is battling a plethora of cancer-related issues. She is a “trooper” but needs our prayers and support.
(7) Pray for a local officer who is on the verge of losing his job due in part to a lack of true servant-leadership in his agency.
(8) Continue to pray (salvation, healing, etc.) for the girlfriend of a Los Angeles PD officer. She was severely burned in an accident and is currently in an induced coma.
(9) Finally, pray for me as I prepare to speak at an upcoming retreat/conference at Glen Eyrie in Colorado Springs later this month.
Stay safe and LEAD biblically!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Strength & Honor!
Greetings, fellow Warriors! This week's newsletter is ready for your review -- enjoy.
WORSHIP (a great way to start both our studies and the weekly e-newsletter):
Check out this great video of Mark Schultz’s awesome new song, “He Is!” Very uplifting way to get into this week’s newsletter: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1dElIkD3hU.
Speaking of worship, we hope to have our own Matt Wallenburg back soon to open our fellowship with some awesome worship music!
UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE:
3/4/10 1900 Calvary South Denver in Littleton (http://www.calvarycsd.org/), Rm. #7.
3/11/10 1900 Same place/time as above.
3/18/10 1900 NO MEETING
RECAP from last week and PREVIEW of tomorrow’s study:
Last week we continued our current series on leadership by taking a hard look at an example of a leader who had “super” potential but failed miserably due to lack of integrity. In Sampson (Judges 13:24-16:31), we see a “leader” (Isreal’s final judge) who had incredible God-given gifts of physical strength yet was taken down by his overt disobedience (SIN) in the areas of pride, lust, arrogance, ungodly anger, deceit, lack of wisdom, and being unequally yoked to an unbeliever (to name just a few). Moreover, Sampson was a warrior who personified the “Lone Ranger” mentality. Sound like any of us (hmmm)? Finally, when utterly broken and defeated, Sampson called on God to strengthen him only to carry out personal vengeance (more sin) instead of truly repenting for the right reasons. See http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=62&Itemid=9 to get the full picture of a leader to whom God gave every possible gift to effectively serve and protect the people of Isreal but who in the end died utterly defeated and alone.
This week we’ll take a short detour from Col. Fairman’s leadership series to explore what it means to lead a truly value-centered life – one of godly “strength and honor!” Please join us and invite a friend or colleague.
NEW LAW ENFORCEMENT BIBLE STUDY GROUPS in Metro Denver!
God has been answering prayer by continuing to raise up leaders who are starting new LEO Bible study groups right here in Metro Denver! This is a big area and, clearly, not everyone can make the drive down south to our meetings on a regular basis. A big part of our “mission” is to pray for godly servant-leaders willing to say “yes” to Christ reference our mandate to share the Gospel with our brother and sister officers. Here is what I know about so far (please contact me if I’ve missed something):
(1) Denver PD Ofc. Derek McCluskie has started a group that meets at 1100 hours on Wednesdays at Panera Bread (yum – good choice), 3700 E. Quebec Street in Denver (Stapleton area). Derek's email address is dmccluskie@gmail.com.
(2) Derek tells me that there is another group forming near Wheat Ridge and I’m in the process of obtaining more “411” on same…stay tuned!
(3) Pastor and DPD Chaplain Lonnie Trujillo of Legacy Christian Fellowship in Westminster (http://www.legacychristian.org/) continues to meet with officers at 1230 on Tuesdays at Brooklyn’s near downtown Denver. Email Lonnie at legacychristian@mac.com for more information. Lonnie rocked at the IACP conference!
(4) Les Lira is leading a weekly study for area cops and others at 2000 hours on Monday or Wednesday evenings (day floats to accommodate some of the officers’ schedules) at the very cool Solid Grounds Coffee Shop (http://www.solidgrounds.org/about.html) located at Broadway and Panama in Littleton. Contact Les at lesliratoday@yahoo.com for more information.
(5) Finally, our own Officer Jason Pearson is being called to help lead the “Iron Men” (As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17) Men’s Ministry group at Creekside Bible Church in Castle Rock. Jason is also healing well from his recent knee surgery – thanks to all who prayed for him!
If you have a law enforcement Bible study going in your area, please let me know and I’ll post it here and on our website. Speaking of same, see the links to various other Christian LEO groups meeting all over the country (FCPO, POFCI, etc.).
Speaking of godly law enforcement leaders and warrior-relevant Bible studies, Deputy Mike Dye’s (author of The Peacekeepers: A Bible Study for Law Enforcement -- found at http://www.christiancop.com/) latest blog has been posted and highlights some great truths on the dangers of legalism in the Church. The post also served to teach me a new synonym for the proper application of police discretion: GRACE! Check it out: http://christiancop.blogspot.com/.
TRAINING CORNER:
PoliceOne has posted a great article about a female sheepdog who stayed in the fight and won. Outstanding behavior!
http://www.policeone.com/close-quarters-combat/articles/2007023-Pa-cop-fought-for-her-life-before-shooting-suspect/
PRAYER REQUESTS! Lots to put out this weekend – please take the time to read and pray:
(1) Dep. John Reynolds with the Fresno County (CA) Sheriff’s Department sent the following:
“Prayers are requested for the families and colleagues of Fresno County Sheriff's Deputy Joel Wahlenmaier and Reedley Police Officer Javier Bejar. Wahlenmaier lost his life and Bejar has been taken off life support following a gun battle last week with a barricaded suspect in eastern Fresno County. The suspect later took his own life. Deputy Mark Harris received injuries in the exchange of gunfire and was released from the hospital. There are many individuals that were involved in this fierce gun battle that are "heroes", although they may not feel like it right now. Their names have been kept quiet from the public, but the Lord knows who they are and they too need our prayers as they cope with the loss of one of their own and recover from the effects of the incident.
This brings up the point that "we" should know where those in our sphere of influence stand with God. Whether they are believers, unbelievers, seeking or whatever, we should have them all triaged and pray and/or witness to them accordingly."
Well said John…well said!
(2) Pray for former Chicago PD Officer Louise Cole (mother of wounded CPD Officer Densey Cole) who is battling cancer. Keep Densey in prayer as well (both healing and that he will come to Christ on Christ’s terms rather than his own).
(3) From fellow Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) board member Chuck Urgo in Chicago regarding the line-of-duty death of CPD Sgt. Al Haymaker (please keep his family and colleagues in prayer):
For those who may have missed the local news on Friday, here is a link to the ABC Chicago report on the funeral of our brother in Christ, Sgt. Alan Haymaker --
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=7299372
(4) From fellow State Investigator Jimmy Wattles (of Gangland fame):
"Please continue to pray for my fellow State of Colorado investigator, who just underwent a second surgery to repair a leg injury. He suffered a complex compound fracture of his left leg during a jet ski accident in August. There were also other internal injuries, and he spent 12 days in the hospital. Earlier this month, he underwent a second surgery on his leg, which removed plates and a piece of bone that had died. He now has 5 pins holding the bones apart and is scheduled for yet another surgery on March 5th, so put a rod in his leg and to take bone from his pelvis and fuse it in his leg. He had complications after the previous surgery from the spinal epidural and infections following the first surgery. Please pray his next surgery goes well and the healing process can begin."
(5) Englewood PD Officer Shane Ellison’s 5 y.o. daughter Tayler continues to battle brain cancer and is home again after a recent emergency situation. Please, please join us in praying for this little warrior! Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylerellison for more (password is “taylerellison”)
(6) Pray for a Christian prosecutor in NM who has been dealing with ungodly, poor leadership in the DA’s office. As God to show her HIS perfect will for her life and career.
(7) The son of a Colorado chief whom I know well has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Please pray (healing and other issues)!
(8) From Vito Ancona with FCPO in Maine:
"My wife’s mother has gone home to be with the Lord – very peacefully with almost no medication to help her on her way. Please pray for my wife and family (it's been a hard 5-1/2 months with the loss of my father's sister, my father, and a month later my wife’s mother)."
(9) As many of you know, Mahnomen County (MN) Deputy Chris Dewey is now back in Minnesota. Sadly, there have been some complications concerning the new rehab hospital. Please pray for Chris, his wife Emily, and her family as they seek God’s will and direction as it relates to Chris (and Emily’s) future and care.
See http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey for more.
(10) Sgt. Keith Adams of the Cary (NC) PD is asking for our prayers concerning Franklin County (NC) Dep. James Williamson who was critically injured in an assault. See http://news14.com/charlotte-news-104-content/video_stories/622681/franklin-county-deputy-seriously-injured-in-fight?ap=1&MP4 for more.
(11) Pray for a NM officer who is undergoing some pretty severe testing/trials as she deals with poor leadership in her agency.
(12) Finally, please be in prayer for the family of one of our regulars (Michelle): they are dealing with what can only be described as “Job-like” issues. Pray for healing and strength. More issues here but God knows what is needed. Our course is to pray and support!
Our Lord could come for us at any time. Are YOU ready? Do you KNOW where you will spend eternity? You can! Don’t be “left behind” (see http://www.gotquestions.org/left-behind-rapture.html). Let’s stay the course and finish strong with honour!
WORSHIP (a great way to start both our studies and the weekly e-newsletter):
Check out this great video of Mark Schultz’s awesome new song, “He Is!” Very uplifting way to get into this week’s newsletter: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1dElIkD3hU.
Speaking of worship, we hope to have our own Matt Wallenburg back soon to open our fellowship with some awesome worship music!
UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE:
3/4/10 1900 Calvary South Denver in Littleton (http://www.calvarycsd.org/), Rm. #7.
3/11/10 1900 Same place/time as above.
3/18/10 1900 NO MEETING
RECAP from last week and PREVIEW of tomorrow’s study:
Last week we continued our current series on leadership by taking a hard look at an example of a leader who had “super” potential but failed miserably due to lack of integrity. In Sampson (Judges 13:24-16:31), we see a “leader” (Isreal’s final judge) who had incredible God-given gifts of physical strength yet was taken down by his overt disobedience (SIN) in the areas of pride, lust, arrogance, ungodly anger, deceit, lack of wisdom, and being unequally yoked to an unbeliever (to name just a few). Moreover, Sampson was a warrior who personified the “Lone Ranger” mentality. Sound like any of us (hmmm)? Finally, when utterly broken and defeated, Sampson called on God to strengthen him only to carry out personal vengeance (more sin) instead of truly repenting for the right reasons. See http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=62&Itemid=9 to get the full picture of a leader to whom God gave every possible gift to effectively serve and protect the people of Isreal but who in the end died utterly defeated and alone.
This week we’ll take a short detour from Col. Fairman’s leadership series to explore what it means to lead a truly value-centered life – one of godly “strength and honor!” Please join us and invite a friend or colleague.
NEW LAW ENFORCEMENT BIBLE STUDY GROUPS in Metro Denver!
God has been answering prayer by continuing to raise up leaders who are starting new LEO Bible study groups right here in Metro Denver! This is a big area and, clearly, not everyone can make the drive down south to our meetings on a regular basis. A big part of our “mission” is to pray for godly servant-leaders willing to say “yes” to Christ reference our mandate to share the Gospel with our brother and sister officers. Here is what I know about so far (please contact me if I’ve missed something):
(1) Denver PD Ofc. Derek McCluskie has started a group that meets at 1100 hours on Wednesdays at Panera Bread (yum – good choice), 3700 E. Quebec Street in Denver (Stapleton area). Derek's email address is dmccluskie@gmail.com.
(2) Derek tells me that there is another group forming near Wheat Ridge and I’m in the process of obtaining more “411” on same…stay tuned!
(3) Pastor and DPD Chaplain Lonnie Trujillo of Legacy Christian Fellowship in Westminster (http://www.legacychristian.org/) continues to meet with officers at 1230 on Tuesdays at Brooklyn’s near downtown Denver. Email Lonnie at legacychristian@mac.com for more information. Lonnie rocked at the IACP conference!
(4) Les Lira is leading a weekly study for area cops and others at 2000 hours on Monday or Wednesday evenings (day floats to accommodate some of the officers’ schedules) at the very cool Solid Grounds Coffee Shop (http://www.solidgrounds.org/about.html) located at Broadway and Panama in Littleton. Contact Les at lesliratoday@yahoo.com for more information.
(5) Finally, our own Officer Jason Pearson is being called to help lead the “Iron Men” (As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17) Men’s Ministry group at Creekside Bible Church in Castle Rock. Jason is also healing well from his recent knee surgery – thanks to all who prayed for him!
If you have a law enforcement Bible study going in your area, please let me know and I’ll post it here and on our website. Speaking of same, see the links to various other Christian LEO groups meeting all over the country (FCPO, POFCI, etc.).
Speaking of godly law enforcement leaders and warrior-relevant Bible studies, Deputy Mike Dye’s (author of The Peacekeepers: A Bible Study for Law Enforcement -- found at http://www.christiancop.com/) latest blog has been posted and highlights some great truths on the dangers of legalism in the Church. The post also served to teach me a new synonym for the proper application of police discretion: GRACE! Check it out: http://christiancop.blogspot.com/.
TRAINING CORNER:
PoliceOne has posted a great article about a female sheepdog who stayed in the fight and won. Outstanding behavior!
http://www.policeone.com/close-quarters-combat/articles/2007023-Pa-cop-fought-for-her-life-before-shooting-suspect/
PRAYER REQUESTS! Lots to put out this weekend – please take the time to read and pray:
(1) Dep. John Reynolds with the Fresno County (CA) Sheriff’s Department sent the following:
“Prayers are requested for the families and colleagues of Fresno County Sheriff's Deputy Joel Wahlenmaier and Reedley Police Officer Javier Bejar. Wahlenmaier lost his life and Bejar has been taken off life support following a gun battle last week with a barricaded suspect in eastern Fresno County. The suspect later took his own life. Deputy Mark Harris received injuries in the exchange of gunfire and was released from the hospital. There are many individuals that were involved in this fierce gun battle that are "heroes", although they may not feel like it right now. Their names have been kept quiet from the public, but the Lord knows who they are and they too need our prayers as they cope with the loss of one of their own and recover from the effects of the incident.
This brings up the point that "we" should know where those in our sphere of influence stand with God. Whether they are believers, unbelievers, seeking or whatever, we should have them all triaged and pray and/or witness to them accordingly."
Well said John…well said!
(2) Pray for former Chicago PD Officer Louise Cole (mother of wounded CPD Officer Densey Cole) who is battling cancer. Keep Densey in prayer as well (both healing and that he will come to Christ on Christ’s terms rather than his own).
(3) From fellow Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) board member Chuck Urgo in Chicago regarding the line-of-duty death of CPD Sgt. Al Haymaker (please keep his family and colleagues in prayer):
For those who may have missed the local news on Friday, here is a link to the ABC Chicago report on the funeral of our brother in Christ, Sgt. Alan Haymaker --
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=7299372
(4) From fellow State Investigator Jimmy Wattles (of Gangland fame):
"Please continue to pray for my fellow State of Colorado investigator, who just underwent a second surgery to repair a leg injury. He suffered a complex compound fracture of his left leg during a jet ski accident in August. There were also other internal injuries, and he spent 12 days in the hospital. Earlier this month, he underwent a second surgery on his leg, which removed plates and a piece of bone that had died. He now has 5 pins holding the bones apart and is scheduled for yet another surgery on March 5th, so put a rod in his leg and to take bone from his pelvis and fuse it in his leg. He had complications after the previous surgery from the spinal epidural and infections following the first surgery. Please pray his next surgery goes well and the healing process can begin."
(5) Englewood PD Officer Shane Ellison’s 5 y.o. daughter Tayler continues to battle brain cancer and is home again after a recent emergency situation. Please, please join us in praying for this little warrior! Go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylerellison for more (password is “taylerellison”)
(6) Pray for a Christian prosecutor in NM who has been dealing with ungodly, poor leadership in the DA’s office. As God to show her HIS perfect will for her life and career.
(7) The son of a Colorado chief whom I know well has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Please pray (healing and other issues)!
(8) From Vito Ancona with FCPO in Maine:
"My wife’s mother has gone home to be with the Lord – very peacefully with almost no medication to help her on her way. Please pray for my wife and family (it's been a hard 5-1/2 months with the loss of my father's sister, my father, and a month later my wife’s mother)."
(9) As many of you know, Mahnomen County (MN) Deputy Chris Dewey is now back in Minnesota. Sadly, there have been some complications concerning the new rehab hospital. Please pray for Chris, his wife Emily, and her family as they seek God’s will and direction as it relates to Chris (and Emily’s) future and care.
See http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey for more.
(10) Sgt. Keith Adams of the Cary (NC) PD is asking for our prayers concerning Franklin County (NC) Dep. James Williamson who was critically injured in an assault. See http://news14.com/charlotte-news-104-content/video_stories/622681/franklin-county-deputy-seriously-injured-in-fight?ap=1&MP4 for more.
(11) Pray for a NM officer who is undergoing some pretty severe testing/trials as she deals with poor leadership in her agency.
(12) Finally, please be in prayer for the family of one of our regulars (Michelle): they are dealing with what can only be described as “Job-like” issues. Pray for healing and strength. More issues here but God knows what is needed. Our course is to pray and support!
Our Lord could come for us at any time. Are YOU ready? Do you KNOW where you will spend eternity? You can! Don’t be “left behind” (see http://www.gotquestions.org/left-behind-rapture.html). Let’s stay the course and finish strong with honour!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
UPDATE: 3 Officers Shot Near Fresno
Reference the shooting in Fresno County (CA)...
UPDATE (03/02/10): Both Fresno County S.O. Fresno County Sheriff’s Detective Joel Wahlenmaier and Reedley PD Officer Javier Bejar were killed, and Deputy Mark Harris suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Here is the update from www.PoliceLink.com: http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/134771-officer-in-calif-shootout-taken-off-life-support.
Let's be in prayer for their colleagues and families. God has a plan -- let's stay the course.
I'll put the newsletter out on Wednesday and (for locals and visitors) were "on" as usual for this Thursday's "cop church."
UPDATE (03/02/10): Both Fresno County S.O. Fresno County Sheriff’s Detective Joel Wahlenmaier and Reedley PD Officer Javier Bejar were killed, and Deputy Mark Harris suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Here is the update from www.PoliceLink.com: http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/134771-officer-in-calif-shootout-taken-off-life-support.
Let's be in prayer for their colleagues and families. God has a plan -- let's stay the course.
I'll put the newsletter out on Wednesday and (for locals and visitors) were "on" as usual for this Thursday's "cop church."
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Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Remembering Chicago PD Sgt. Al Haymaker
UPDATED 2/25/10!
Fellow FCPO national board member Chuck Urgo (Chicago PD - retired) sent met his today reference the line-of-duty death of CPD Sgt. Al Haymaker. In addition to having a cool last name, this brother was absolutely SOLID in the Lord. As such, we can rest easy knowing that Al is with Him now. Al's example should be one that motivates other believers to share Christ with their colleagues. Let's be in prayer for Al's wife, daughters, family and colleagues. In addition, check this out as well (story about Al on Moody Radio): http://www.moodyradio.org/brd_ProgramDetail.aspx?id=48728. Chuck also writes, "The wake is today and the funeral on Friday. I will be volunteering with the CPD Peer Support team for both. The services will be from Al's church and are to be streamed to all our police districts. What a witnessing opportunity for his pastor! "
I would add, what a witnessing opportunity for the Christian cops who will be present!!
Former Partner: Haymaker Was "Good, Patient"
"He was patient with young officers and loved to teach."
Town Hall District police officers gathered this morning for a bunting ceremony for Sgt. Alan Haymaker, who died yesterday in an early morning crash on Lake Shore Drive while responding to a burglary. Though most officers declined comment, Haymaker's former partner took the opportunity to recall the deceased peace officer as a man who "had a great love for God, his family and friends."
"He was patient with young officers and loved to teach," said Officer Larry Young, a former partner in the 15th for five years, and who works in the 23rd now. "It's what he did all the time."
Young said that Haymaker was patient, conscientious with paperwork, and a man of deep faith. "At the scene of a shooting, he would comfort the family and tell them about God and how he would pull them through," said Young.
That Haymaker was religious shouldn't come as a surprise: he joined the police department in 1988, changing careers from being an associate pastor at a Northwest Side evangelical church. Haymaker had also attended Moody Bible Institute and Trinity Evangelical University.
Haymaker is the 13th officer killed in the district since March 5, 1910.
Haymaker was responding to a burglary in progress when his squad car left the road, hit a light pole and finally a tree. He was pinned in the car for some time.
The accident occurred at 5:06 am at the 4100 block of Lake Shore Drive. The burglary was reported at 3167 N. Clark, at the Consolidated Communications building. Police closed down all four southbound lanes to investigate the accident for a short time.
After the crash, Haymaker was taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center where was pronounced dead at 7:33 a.m. Haymaker comes from a long line of cops. His Grandfather, father and uncle all served on the force. Haymaker, who had been serving from the 23rd precint since December, is survived by his wife and three daughters.
Police said icy roads may have been a factor in the crash. The accident happened in the midst of a Winter Weather Advisory that warned of slick roads and poor visibility.
See also http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local-beat/Officers-Remember-Sgt-Haymaker-85042437.html (amazed that a secular/liberal newspaper would print something positive about a cop who was also a believer).
Fellow FCPO national board member Chuck Urgo (Chicago PD - retired) sent met his today reference the line-of-duty death of CPD Sgt. Al Haymaker. In addition to having a cool last name, this brother was absolutely SOLID in the Lord. As such, we can rest easy knowing that Al is with Him now. Al's example should be one that motivates other believers to share Christ with their colleagues. Let's be in prayer for Al's wife, daughters, family and colleagues. In addition, check this out as well (story about Al on Moody Radio): http://www.moodyradio.org/brd_ProgramDetail.aspx?id=48728. Chuck also writes, "The wake is today and the funeral on Friday. I will be volunteering with the CPD Peer Support team for both. The services will be from Al's church and are to be streamed to all our police districts. What a witnessing opportunity for his pastor! "
I would add, what a witnessing opportunity for the Christian cops who will be present!!
Former Partner: Haymaker Was "Good, Patient"
"He was patient with young officers and loved to teach."
Town Hall District police officers gathered this morning for a bunting ceremony for Sgt. Alan Haymaker, who died yesterday in an early morning crash on Lake Shore Drive while responding to a burglary. Though most officers declined comment, Haymaker's former partner took the opportunity to recall the deceased peace officer as a man who "had a great love for God, his family and friends."
"He was patient with young officers and loved to teach," said Officer Larry Young, a former partner in the 15th for five years, and who works in the 23rd now. "It's what he did all the time."
Young said that Haymaker was patient, conscientious with paperwork, and a man of deep faith. "At the scene of a shooting, he would comfort the family and tell them about God and how he would pull them through," said Young.
That Haymaker was religious shouldn't come as a surprise: he joined the police department in 1988, changing careers from being an associate pastor at a Northwest Side evangelical church. Haymaker had also attended Moody Bible Institute and Trinity Evangelical University.
Haymaker is the 13th officer killed in the district since March 5, 1910.
Haymaker was responding to a burglary in progress when his squad car left the road, hit a light pole and finally a tree. He was pinned in the car for some time.
The accident occurred at 5:06 am at the 4100 block of Lake Shore Drive. The burglary was reported at 3167 N. Clark, at the Consolidated Communications building. Police closed down all four southbound lanes to investigate the accident for a short time.
After the crash, Haymaker was taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center where was pronounced dead at 7:33 a.m. Haymaker comes from a long line of cops. His Grandfather, father and uncle all served on the force. Haymaker, who had been serving from the 23rd precint since December, is survived by his wife and three daughters.
Police said icy roads may have been a factor in the crash. The accident happened in the midst of a Winter Weather Advisory that warned of slick roads and poor visibility.
See also http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local-beat/Officers-Remember-Sgt-Haymaker-85042437.html (amazed that a secular/liberal newspaper would print something positive about a cop who was also a believer).
Monday, February 22, 2010
UPDATED: Dep. Chris Dewey's Departure Information
DPD Ofc. Danny Veith submitted this update a short time ago:
TO Denver Area Law Enforcement Community
FROM Det Danny Veith, Denver PD Employee Assistance & Wellness
DATE February 22, 2010
SUBJECT Revised Time of Departure From Craig / Route
Minnesota Deputy Chris Dewey arrived at Craig Hospital ( Englewood , CO ) on March 5, 2009 for the interdisciplinary Traumatic Brain Injury Program to address the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained. Chris is leaving Craig Hospital tomorrow to return home to Minnesota.
We are hoping the Denver area law enforcement community will come out to Craig Hospital tomorrow morning, at 9:30 AM, to bid farewell to Chris and his wife Emily. We are also planning an escort from Craig Hospital ( 3425 S. Clarkson Street ) to Centennial Airport . Officers in marked patrol vehicles are encouraged to participate (parking will be made available on S. Clarkson Street ).
The anticipated route, from Craig Hospital, will be Hampden Ave East to I-25, I-25 South to Arapahoe Rd, Arapahoe Rd East to S. Peoria, and Peoria South to the Denver Jetcenter facility at 7625 S. Peoria St.
Detective Danny Veith, 94040
Employee Assistance & Wellness
Office of the Chief of Police
1331 Cherokee Street Denver, CO 80204
Desk: 720-913-6569
Nextel: 720-641-0208
TO Denver Area Law Enforcement Community
FROM Det Danny Veith, Denver PD Employee Assistance & Wellness
DATE February 22, 2010
SUBJECT Revised Time of Departure From Craig / Route
Minnesota Deputy Chris Dewey arrived at Craig Hospital ( Englewood , CO ) on March 5, 2009 for the interdisciplinary Traumatic Brain Injury Program to address the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained. Chris is leaving Craig Hospital tomorrow to return home to Minnesota.
We are hoping the Denver area law enforcement community will come out to Craig Hospital tomorrow morning, at 9:30 AM, to bid farewell to Chris and his wife Emily. We are also planning an escort from Craig Hospital ( 3425 S. Clarkson Street ) to Centennial Airport . Officers in marked patrol vehicles are encouraged to participate (parking will be made available on S. Clarkson Street ).
The anticipated route, from Craig Hospital, will be Hampden Ave East to I-25, I-25 South to Arapahoe Rd, Arapahoe Rd East to S. Peoria, and Peoria South to the Denver Jetcenter facility at 7625 S. Peoria St.
Detective Danny Veith, 94040
Employee Assistance & Wellness
Office of the Chief of Police
1331 Cherokee Street Denver, CO 80204
Desk: 720-913-6569
Nextel: 720-641-0208
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