Message from the NTOA’s Chaplaincy Section Chair

To our NTOA family:

Since its founding in 1983, the NTOA and its members have weathered many storms together, from the days following 9/11 and the Global War on Terror to this new war on an invisible enemy, a virus that is indiscriminate in its attack and places us in lock step with law enforcement officers around the globe.

Law enforcement’s mission to protect and serve during this time of uncertainty is indeed a challenge as we are in forced isolation from our respective faith congregations and worship communities that we rely on for support and strength. For those of you on this new front line, one thing you can count on is that the indomitable spirit driven by our individual faith traditions will fuel both courage and resilience.

In the days ahead, a compassionate response will be critical as already anxious people struggle with being excluded from much of public life, compounding their loneliness and isolation. As you navigate this new normal, remember the messages of hope and compassion that characterize our many faith traditions. Those words of comfort reveal a color of the heart of God that is precious, vibrant and alive.

As we go forward, please keep in mind that it is our faith that gives substance to our hopes and convinces us of realities we do not see, a God of all humanity who stands with us in solidarity.

With every good wish and blessing in the days ahead.

Chaplain Rick Iannucci
[email protected]