Chief Renaud delivered the following address at a meeting of the Canadian Police Chaplain's Association in September 1996. Marc Poire is the department's full-time chaplain.
Quebec City was founded in 1608 and our police service was established as soon as 1853. Contrary to general belief, our chaplain is not as old as our service!
Our chaplain and his predecessors have had to adjust to social realities as well as the never-ending evolution of our organization and changes. Among the major changes encountered we find the integration of female police officers, the humanization of the police service, change in the religious practices and the different religious orientations found in one's organization.
All these factors and many more contribute in changing the chaplain's role.
What are the expectations that a chief of police has towards his chaplain?
First of all the chaplain must be discreet. He must have a good ear. He must also be available and have a flexible approach. For some people, a chaplain is a resource person. With his presence, his approach and his expertise, he will announce bad news with more skill and will assist in comforting.
(Second), a chaplain has to preside over different religious ceremonies . . . Furthermore, he has to act as a counselor and often refers cases to the proper agency. He becomes a first response resource when we have to deal with distress from a victim, a prisoner, a suicidal person or a member of our service or family. His clientele varies but his mission stays, "to give support and comfort."
Finally, a chaplain has to remain a spiritual guide.
A chaplain has to be involved in the community by, for instance, setting up a fundraising for the needy, making our members aware of the challenges facing different social groups, assisting community groups by means of a foundation. By whatever means, a chaplain has to be present and active. All in all, a chaplain's activities within a police service are diverse and are sometimes mis-understood.
You have a huge mandate and your presence is essential to the quality of service provided to the community and to the stability in our organizations.
I hope you will continue your efforts in order to emphasize the nobility of your profession. Be assured that we will support you all the way.