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CHAPLAINCY’S ROLE KEY IN THE POLICE SERVICE

By Crime Watch | 2024-04-20

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

This was a scripter quote by the Deputy National Commissioner – Wendy Hleta during the official closing of a five-day Chaplaincy Training Seminar held at the Police Academy last Friday. Hleta, who was representing the National Commissioner of Police, made reference to this bible extract from 2 Timothy 2:15, as she challenged the 18 participants to walk in a straight line, be bold and have no fear just like our Saviour.

“We need you and we cannot be, without being strengthened in the Lord, therefore pray for the Regional Commissioners and Station Commanders,” said Hleta.

Expressed
The Deputy National Commissioner expressed delight with the integrated capacitation as the seminar comprised participants from the Royal Eswatini Police Service, His Majesty’s Correctional Services and the Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services.

She noted that this will strengthen existing relations as these entities work together in various national operations. She said the training was very valuable and extended special thanks to the International Conference of Police Chaplains, especially Dr. Mabvuto Chipeta from Malawi, who was the guest facilitator.

“Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule and come to impart knowledge to our participants. We acknowledge the experience you have on the chaplaincy work, as you have facilitated in many African countries,” she said.

Hleta revealed that sometimes the policing vocation exposes officers to tragic and gruesome incidents which add on to other personal life issues. She said it is for this reason that well-trained chaplains are needed to bring counselling and speak words of hope and comfort. She emphasized that the chaplaincy is an important unit within the service as it helps in guiding officers spiritually and otherwise.

The Deputy National Commissioner implored the chaplains to be more professional in their duties now that they have acquired more knowledge.

She acknowledged that Chaplaincy is not an easy task as it requires a disciplined officer who is not judgmental, maintains confidentiality and has integrity.

She urged them to love officers and always avail themselves to provide spiritual support without discrimination.

Hleta said Police Service was mandated with delivering quality service to the nation therefore, the chaplaincy must also play a vital role in uniting members of public and police officers. She challenged the chaplains to work towards strengthening relationships the Royal Eswatini Police Service has with religious leaders and faith-based entities.

The facilitator, Dr. Chipeta Mabvuto revealed that the International Conference of Police Chaplains was mandated with the professional development of law enforcement chaplains so that they can be efficient in their calling.

Applauded
He further applauded the Royal Eswatini Police Service for the unique synergy in capacitation which included the Fire and Correctional Service stating that such should be encouraged because chaplains do not work in isolation. He then capped the training by commissioning the participants with the Chaplaincy Charge which they all accepted.

Speaking on behalf of the chaplains, Sergeant Thenjiwe Madonsela expressed sincere gratitude towards the office of the Acting National Commissioner for being afforded the opportunity to be capacitated.

She also applauded the inclusion of officers from Fire and Correctional departments in the workshop, stating that it fortifies existing relations.

She said the seminar revived and equipped them to be more professional and further made a pledge that they will uplift the standards of chaplaincy by fashioning new trends.

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