| Our program provides 44 hours of classroom training, 12 hours of direct contact experience and 3 hours of seminar training. To date, we have trained over 300 chaplains. Here are a few of their responses.
I was grateful that my department recognized the value of the Chaplain's Academy even before I attended. The reputation of the academy is well known and our Department leadership required attending as a requisite for the position. Even though my background included masters degrees in ministry and psychology, and many years of mental health ministry, I was able, as a new chaplain, to clarify my role in the department, pick up practical skills in some of the more difficult aspect of our ministry, and practical tips on what to carry in my "chaplain's go bag". The networking with the men and women who had "been there" has proven to be invaluable in relating to the unique culture that is a police department. They did a great job of pointing out the errors a beginner could make that would make the process of "coming on board" that much more difficult. The experience helped me to focus on the core skills that I needed to sharpen and how to fit those in with the needs of those I serve. Thanks to the start the academy provided, I am considered a full member of my department, even though I am a chaplain and not a police officer. I am not paid, but this is the greatest job I have ever had.
Chaplain Art Mize
Tumwater Police Department
As a 20 year “veteran” of Police & Fire chaplaincy the greatest, yet uncalculated value of PFCTA for me was to realize what I did not know. The years of experience and knowledge that was given to us during that week enlarged my vision and understanding of chaplaincy. I expect the product of my serving as a chaplain to be of a greater effectiveness and quality as a result of having attended PFCTA.
Holly I. Lienhard
Pierce County Sheriff’s Department |
