National Police Week Observance Concludes Locally With Ecumenical Service

From the day we were born, there has been someone to instill in each and every one of us ethics, morals, and values. Whether it has been a parent, relative, teacher, coach, pastor, or friend, we have all been educated to distinguish right from wrong.  As we mature in life, "free will" allows us to make decisions, and oftentimes, mistakes or poor judgments are made and consequences must be enforced. When those circumstances arise, there are men and women who have taken such vows to preserve the law and protect society joining various departments of law enforcement. Unfortunately, all too often some of these law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice, even giving their lives in the effort to assist with order in today's society.

Today, an Ecumenical service was held at 11a.m. at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 3 S. Randolph St. in San Angelo, honoring and showing appreciation for those officers who died in the line of duty. The procession started with Jane Smith playing "You Raise Me Up" on the organ, followed by the posting of colors by the SAPD Honor Guard, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Lorenzo Hatch, SAPD Chaplain. Reverend Matt Rowe then gave the invocation addressing over 200 attendees.

"Observance of a fallen comrade" included officers placing a pair of boots, a motorcycle helmet, a candle and single white rose front and center on an empty chair and table, and Chief Tim Vasquez gave the welcome.

"The chair that stands before you is a place of honor; the chair is empty, symbolizing our missing brother who is not here with us today," said Vasquez. "The burning candle is reminiscent of a life of hope that lives in our hearts. The white rose symbolizes purity of intention in responding to a call to serve one's community. The yellow ribbon symbolizes the everlasting hope of a reunion with our brother. All who have served alongside Sgt. Korby Kennedy, [and] those who have donned the same proud uniform being sworn to the same faith and allegiance, we will never forget his sacrifice; we remember."

 

(Photo Courtesy SAPD CST Jessica Stevens)

Chaplain Hatch delivered a reading from the Prophet Micah (6:6-8), which included, "You have been told o' mortal what is good, and what the Lord requires of you, only to do justice and to love goodness and to walk humbly with your God." SAPD Chaplain Thomas Tallas read a portion of the book of John (15:9-17) highlighting, "We are to love each other as the Lord has loved us. Greater love has no more than this as he lay down his life for his friends."  

As Reverend Rowe took the podium recognizing National Police Week, he said, "It was a week set aside to honor our law enforcement officers on May 15th of each year, first recognized back in 1962 and signed into law by President John F. Kennedy. Law enforcement officers keep us safe as we pursue our own activities of daily life and protect us when danger approaches, helping to bring justice when property and person are violated." 

He then read from the 12th chapter of Mark telling the story of when Jesus was asked which of all the commandments was most important. Rowe said, "Jesus answered, 'Love the Lord, your God, with all your heart and all your soul, and with all your mind and strength. The second is to love your neighbor as yourself.'" 

Reverend Rowe added, "If we could all do just that, we could all be living fully into the Kingdom of God, which is simple, but not necessarily easy. In the church, we have a lot of work to do as it seems there is more turning away from God's love than towards it these days. Because of that, there is an increase in turning toward harmful ways through self affirmation and self sustenance. Alcohol, drugs, and other abusive behaviors are on the rise. There are even those who come to a complete negation of their self image that results in suicidal ideation. And if one feels no respect or love for oneself, it follows that a lack of respect or love for their neighbor is the result. So abusive treatment, criminal acts and violent behavior mar our common life, and that means you (addressing the crowd of law enforcement officers) have a lot of work to do; and I pray God's protection as you do it."

St. Michael is regarded as the Patron Saint of police officers. In the 12th chapter of the Book of Revelations, Michael remains faithful and at his post as other angels rebel against God. Reverend Rowe thanked the congregation for being faithful and at their posts and "allowing us to be at our posts."

After the Reverend spoke, a video was played for all to share in the memory of 2015's fallen Texas officers, many having served from just weeks to decades. Listening to the various ways these officers lost their lives brought tears to many eyes, but strengthened many hearts as well as the mission must be continued to serve and protect our communities and ensure the welfare of our citizens.

Taps was played, followed by Chris Morgan's Bagpipe rendition of Amazing Grace and the benediction and retiring of the colors. At the conclusion of the service, attendees and law enforcement officers were thanked for their participation and dedication of faith and invited to fellowship in the Parish Hall for a luncheon.

 

Past the sanctuary, and down the long hallway, a line of friends and family members chit-chatted, catching up on old times, hugging, and posing for photos as they waited their turn at the buffet line. Perhaps the most sobering moment of the day was seeing a small table towards the front set for Officer Kennedy that included a side plate of lemons and a Diet Dr Pepper, which brought a smile to all who knew and loved him.

 
Romans 13:1 ESV summarized it best: "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God."  

It takes a unique individual to serve as an officer of the law, and San Angeloans are truly blessed to have such dedicated servants.