“You were there for us!” Braveheart chaplains hear this declaration with some regularity. Whether a few days after a scene or months later, this is frequently expressed. In my sixteen years as an emergency responder chaplain, not once have I heard anyone say, “You shared the most startling information I have ever heard”, or “You prayed the most memorable prayer”, though they express gratefulness for both.  

A chaplain’s presence in the middle of a traumatic incident provides both a peaceful presence for emotional encouragement, spiritual support, answers to logistical questions, and a promise to follow up. All of these are rooted in our calling to join in the suffering of others. 

This summer and fall, our community suffered 9 teen suicides! This is a staggering statistic in a community the size of ours! When you add this to multiple self-inflicted deaths of young adults, just this one aspect of chaplain ministry has been heavy and a burden shared by our community. On top of this we added a homicide in the parking lot of a local business in broad daylight and the regular unexpected deaths, domestic abuse issues, drug-related arrests and a rapidly increasing number of mental health incidents! 

A vital part of our ministry is also ‘being there’ for responders, both on scene and in the hallways afterward as they regularly choose to verbally process the critical events. Being available and them knowing we are there, adds a layer of support and encouragement that they generally do not experience elsewhere. 

One of the most humbling testimonies related to the effectiveness of Braveheart is that which comes from responders. This touching account reassures us that we are to keep on providing essential services.  

As a police officer for 12 years, I have witnessed my fair share of tragedy.  Law Enforcement officers often encounter this challenging dynamic of responsibility of investigative decisions mixed with the morality and human response to trauma.  How do we maintain integrity of the scene without further traumatizing victims on the worst day of their lives?  This past week, I responded with other KPD members to a suicide that had taken place in Kalispell.  

The scene was chaotic I heard over the radio that Chaplain Michelle Van Allen would be responding to the scene to assist.  I watched as an officer spoke to an uncontrollable loved one that had just witnessed the unimaginable.  Some of the questions we ask are met with anger and emotion and we understand and prepare for this to happen.  This is where we as a profession can fall short, not because of a lack of compassion but because of the obligation we have to our community to investigate to the fullest, and to find the truth.  This is where we need help and that help came with the arrival of Chaplain Van Allen.  

Once on scene, I was in awe at the calmness and seemingly determined look she presented as she voluntarily introduced herself into this tragedy. Chaplain Van Allen immediately calmed this family member.  She brought comfort and support and listened to the pain the person was in while she reassured them that they would be ok.  Chaplain Van Allen answered questions and offered guidance in a way that allows law enforcement to focus on the other details of this scene.  

I have always supported what our Chaplain service provides the community but watching Chaplain Van Allen this night really displayed the unbelievable service they provide our community. Thank you, Michelle, for the support you bring our first responders and the poise and skillset you show while doing it!

Now, what about all of you who do not serve as a chaplain? The fact is that all of us can avail ourselves to others in such a way that they could respond, “You were there for us! Your presence was invaluable when”:

• My mom was hospitalized.
• Our teen was in a motor vehicle accident. 
• My spouse had a major surgery and we needed help with our pets, young children, snow shoveling, leaf raking, etc. 
• My husband was in between jobs. 
• Our family seemed to be facing one crisis after another. 
• Our middle age child is still wandering aimlessly in life and the stress never ends. 

What would it require for those around us to make the statement to us, “You were there for us!”

Naturally, it would demand that we be there for them. It means that we would establish enough of a relationship so that we remain in close enough proximity when the need arises. This commonly calls for a concerted effort on our part with some distinct intentionality. 

Our time can easily fill up and be overcrowded with obligations. This can mean that we no longer have time for some people who live next door, work in the space next to ours, or share the same last name. May we choose to maintain open eyes and a caring heart for all of those with whom we cross paths with. 

We are so grateful for those of you who pray for us, give financially and encourage us! You are a blessing!

If you want to make a year-end donation, CLICK HERE, mail checks to P. O. Box 1132, 59903, or contact Tim or RJ Schnee at D A Davidson, 406-752-6212, for stocks, securities, etc.

John 20:30-31

~Chaplain Drew