‘Covered’ Seeks to Bring Transformation to Law Enforcement
A Church of God minister who is also a police officer, has launched an organization that addressees the unique challenges of Christians in law enforcement.
On any given night, the primetime television lineup is packed with heart pumping, suspense filled programs that portray the excitement of police and investigative work. Occasionally, these dramas include characters who struggle with personality flaws or relational issues, but few are an accurate depiction of the profession. Popular reality shows take viewers on a “ride-along” for everything from traffic stops to murder investigations, but they never fully portray the weight of the badge.
The reality is that the challenges facing the law enforcement community, officers, and their families are unique to the subculture. The tragedy, disruption, and chaos that officers experience create emotional and psychological tension, which is compounded by a culture in which outward emotional expression is often unacceptable. Low pay, high stress, long hours, and media scrutiny are but a few of the other challenges facing officers and their families. This stress often equates to higher-than-average rates of divorce, suicide, alcoholism, and financial turmoil.
Covered Law Enforcement is a unique ministry initiative that targets the “thin blue line” of law enforcement professionals and seeks to bring about transformation through the message of Jesus Christ. The logo design – the thin blue line “covered” on top and bottom by red lines, which represent the blood of Jesus – is the catalyst for the new ministry.
Developed by Church of God minister and Chattanooga, Tennessee police officer Jonathan Parker, the vision is that Covered will become the universally recognized symbol of Christian law enforcement and create a spiritual revolution within the profession. The mission is two fold: to promote solidarity among Christian law enforcement personnel and to encourage, support, and create opportunities for witnessing of salvation through Jesus Christ.
For more information about the ministry Covered, visit www.CoveredLawEnforcement.org.
