Shield a Badge

We all know that the police officers in our community put their lives on the line everyday.They answer the calls for help, they direct traffic and work accidents, and they comfort others during a tragedy.And usually, unbeknown to many, they do a lot more good things that aren’t seen or get any good news coverage.How do you show your appreciation and support to your local law enforcement?How about showing your support through the Shield a Badge program.

The “Shield a Badge with a Prayer” program is designed to show support to local Law Enforcement Officers through daily prayer.The Texas State Council promotes this program as a “Community” Activity” and encourages your Council or Assembly to start a “Shield a Badge with a Prayer” program.The goal of “Shield a Badge” is to have every officer “adopted” and to have a daily prayer said for that officer’s Safety, Good Judgment, and a Safe Return Home. The officer’s name and badge number is given to the prayer sponsor.There are NO promises beyond a prayer every day (no personal contact, no phone calls, and no gifts.) Several councils have already started this program within their city or council area.In those larger cities that have large departments, a council can start with the local sector or police station.Or a council could also support a specific unit: homicide, crimes against children, SWAT, etc.

There are certain rules and guidelines that need to be followed in order to implement this program.Also, the council’s coordinator will need to contact the department and get the final approval from the Chief of Police or Sheriff.One way of making this contact would be through the police Chaplin, a community officer, or an officer from the parish or council.For a complete set of these rules and guidelines, please check the Texas State Web page.The Texas State Council is also providing “Shield a Badge with a prayer” thin blue line wristbands for prayer sponsors.This is a nice little reminder to pray each day for their assigned officer.

If you have any questions or need any help getting this started in your community, please call or email Pat Henz, Star Council Award Director pghenz@yahoo.com orwww.shield-a-badge.org