A heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way for those whose daily work exposes them to physical danger. Will you pray for our law enforcement and their families and look for ways to show God’s love?
Last week, tens of thousands of people gathered in Washington, D.C., for National Police Week. The annual May event honors the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers and their families.
Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) chaplains provided emotional and spiritual support as people came from across the country to mourn lost officers or express their gratitude. The specially trained volunteers pointed the crowds in our nation’s capital to the lasting hope found in Jesus Christ.
The solemn week provided space for people to reflect on the life and legacy of loved ones who gave their lives in service to our country. One woman shared with a chaplain that she feels empty and struggles to cope with the loss of her father—a detective who was killed while serving in 1998. The chaplain prayed for the Lord’s strength, healing, and wisdom as she navigates the pain.
Vice President JD Vance addressed those gathered on the U.S. Capitol lawn for the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service. The ceremony remembered those who died in the line of duty the previous year. President Donald Trump also spoke via pre-recorded video.
Along with approximately 30,000 people, chaplains attended a candlelight vigil to honor officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Police Week attendees represented each of America’s 50 states—with many people traveling thousands of miles to show their support for our country’s law enforcement. BG-RRT chaplains also offered a listening ear and prayer for family members dealing with the wounds of loss.
Chaplains ministering during Police Week drew from their own background in law enforcement, allowing them to relate to fellow officers on a personal level.
Crisis-trained BG-RRT chaplains prayed for officers and their families and shared the Good News of hope that Jesus Christ offers in a dark world.
The names of fallen officers are etched on this memorial wall located a few blocks from the National Mall. One woman visiting the monument told a chaplain that before her brother was killed, they were officers together in the same department. The chaplain assisted her in finding a blue crayon to transpose her brother’s name from the wall onto a piece of paper.