Fear
Sees an obstacle- Faith Sees an Opportunity Romans 12:1-4-8 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Testimonies, Praise reports, news, special interest and Field Reports are being posted here in order to give others an idea of the different types of ministries that our chaplains are involved in. 1.
Member's
to e-mail your testimonies, news and field reports
2.
CFMI
Facebook update page  From
Chaplain Luis Rodriguez: Dear Brother chaplains I am writing
with a broken heart, I am here in Puerto Rico working for the Federal
Gov. The Christian community needs your prayers. I am doing the best
I can to help. Inspector Luis Rodriguez /Chaplain US DEPARTMENT OF
HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE /NPPD HATO REY PR 00918
Luis.rodriguez@hq.dhs.gov Romans 13.4 "for he does not bear the
sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath
on him who practices evil. Thank you for your prayers, God bless everyone!
Chaplain Luis Rodriguez Commander CFMI Puerto Rico.
Christmas Dinner: Temple,
Texas (KWTX) A local nonprofit served hundreds in the Temple community
with a free meal Sunday afternoon. It was sponsored by the Neighbors
United Program, which is a community outreach system through Chaplain
Fellowship Ministries. This is the second year the event has been
held. The event was meant to help those in need of a hot meal, but
to also offer a friendly face for anyone spending the holiday alone.
"It's about the holiday spirit,” “It's about everybody
coming and enjoying their time and having a smile on their face and
knowing that they're not alone." About 50 volunteers served about
500 meals. What a great day this was providing Christmas Dinner for
those in need of a hot meal and/or those needing a smiling face to
talk to on Christmas day! Thanks to the numerous volunteers to include
State Representative Hugh Shine, the Troy Leo Club, the Combat Vets
Motorcycle Association, who served food, delivered meals to shut ins
who could not attend the dinner. We want to give a huge thank you
to the First United Methodist Church of Temple, who volunteered their
facilities.
Christmas at the Jail:
how chaplains help officers feel remembered
this holiday: HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The volunteer chaplains corps serving
Madison County deputies who work at the Madison County Detention Facility
have a unique ministry. They don't tend to the inmates; they have
their own assistance. These chaplains serve the officers strictly.
"We love them. We just come on a regular basis to the jail to
visit them, encourage them, become their friend. That's the main thing,"
said chaplain Reggie Whiddon. "They're just the invisible heroes
in our mind. And that's what motivates us to come." Some corrections
officers will confess they often feel forgotten. They, unlike those
on patrol on the streets, work inside jail walls to protect the people.
They work 12 hours a day alongside people society has locked away,
and the public mostly never sees them."There's not really that
many people you can talk to about this kind of job. It's a real stressful
type job," explained Field Training Officer Mike Anderson. "When
the chaplains come in, there's always a smiling face, and it's a way
to get through." Wednesday, the chaplains passed out gift bags
personalized for each officer. Local churches and schools made it
possible, and they even put Christmas cards with handwritten notes
in each bag. The bags had deputies' favorite snacks, a Bible, some
gift cards, even some games. These were presented to the deputies
in appreciation of their work, that many may not even know they do.
"It's a community effort. We as chaplains, we're just the ones
who get to deliver it," said Whiddon. It's all about helping
the officers feel remembered this holiday season. And it seems to
have worked. Some were overwhelmed when given their gift bags, accompanied
by a hug from a chaplain." I can't begin to express the thanks
I have for these guys. The love that I have for them. It's great to
know that someone actually cares about what we do," said Anderson.
"We probably get more of a blessing as chaplains than the officers
receive," countered Whiddon, "because we get to shake their
hand, give them an embrace, look them in the eye, and tell them that
we care. And there's a community that cares. And we say thank you."
In a largely negative world, this brought some joy. "It's Christmas
inside the jail. It really is," said Anderson. 
Chaplain Gibson - OFFICER DOWN
-
Reflecting back as a Law Enforcement Officer and Chaplain: We had
a deputy sheriff killed in an auto accident responding to a call,
man with a gun. When I heard the news about Adam dying it broke my
heart. I reflected back on working as a LEO chaplain and all the times
we talked while on patrol, or while on breaks at the truck stop drinking
coffee. I thought about how many times I have rode with Adam and other
officers at high rates of speed and how blessed I am to have not been
involved in such a tragic accident. There have been two officers I
used to ride with that have been involved in serious accidents, the
officer did survive. Then I reflected back to when I was a police
officer and many times I was behind the wheel at 100 plus, how many
times I took guns or knives away from criminals, and how many times
I had literally stared death in the face and overcame the threats.
We will never know why God spares some and takes others, so let us
show how much we care and appreciate their service now so we will
not have any regrets if something bad happens. I will always remember
Adams smile, I will always remember the good times when we laughed
together. I will also remember the bad times we went through together.
I am a blessed man to have known Adam as well as all the other officers
I have worked with over the years. They were good men who believed
in what they did, they really cared about people. So the next time
we see a police officer why not just say thank you for putting their
lives on the line protecting us and our families. Folks I know there
are also some bad people in law enforcement, but I myself have been
blessed to have only known good police officers personally. I pray
for Adam and his family, he was a wonderful young man who did make
a difference, he died way too young, yet he died doing what he loved.
We go out of our way to tell our troops thank you every day, but do
we ever even stop to think about our police officers, Fire Fighters
and EMS Emergency Services responders? I want to say God bless you
and thank you to all our Law Enforcement Officers, Fire Fighters,
and emergency Service Responders for their service to our nation and
our communities. I pray that God will watch over them and their families.
Have a wonderful and blessed day! Chaplain Gibson
Madison County Detention Facility Chaplains.
Jail
chaplaincy programs is not like others, as these chaplains volunteer
to work with the staff, not the inmates. There are local churches
and ministries that work with the inmates. The facility houses up
to 1220 inmates with a staff of 215. The officers work the floors
and tiers of the jail on 12 hour tours of duty. Their interaction
with inmates working 12 hours shifts is mentally demanding, traumatic
and often causes the staff to experience a lot of stress showing PTSD
type symptoms. As a counter balance to this serious situation, the
leadership of the jail realized a need to have Chaplains available
with corrections training to work with the their officers and families
when needed. There are 10 chaplains at this time, more will be added
as needed. Chaplain Reggie Whiddon the third from the left front row
is the lead chaplain who worked with Chaplain Gibson setting this
program up. Chaplain Whiddon is a wonderful man that has a beautiful
heart for helping others. All these chaplains are members endorsed
by Chaplain Fellowship Ministries.
to see photo and news video
Chaplain
Dwight Menix from New Mexico reporting in:
Greetings from the beautiful mountains in New Mexico. This is a little
late, But "Happy New Year"! As I stated in my last report
that there has been infidelity in my family and 2 marriages have been
broken. Now God has put me into the position of helping these families
heal. Also, with my new position as a Special Education Teacher at
our Middle school. God has placed an 8th grade young man in my life
to mentor. He now comes to my horse farm on weekends to help me work.
He is finally learning that he dose matter and that he can be productive
in society. God Bless,Chaplain Dwight Menix
CFMI
Members update: We received
official notice last night that chaplain Fellowship has been chosen
to be the new endorsement ministry for the Madison county Alabama
detention facility. The County Jail houses up to 1220 inmates with
a staff of 215. Master chaplain Reggie Whidden will be the lead chaplain
with a staff of 9 to 10 chaplains to start with; more will be added
as needed. We welcome them and look forward to working with them in
the future. God bless you and thank you for your time!
Ministry
Update:
Chaplain
David Cody Franz from Texas has been promoted to commander of Chaplain
Fellowship Warriors in Crisis. This is a new department and vision
of Chaplain Franz and Chaplain Gibson. The mission of this new department
will be to find the resources to provide wheel chairs to veterans
and first responders "Police Officers and Fire Fighters",
who need wheel chairs. The chairs we will be working on getting can
be seen in the video below, the cost of these chairs are half the
cost of a regular electric chair. These chairs should also fit in
the trunk of most cars, which will save having to add special equipment
to their autos. Please keep this new department in your prayers. To
view the whellchair
Chaplain
Floyd Dale Stearns reporting in from Texas:
This
is a little late in getting to you and all the members...We had our
monthly fellowship meeting on September 20,2014. Chaplain...Dale &
Sandy Stearns, Justin Gowin, and a Darryl Walker, a visitor, (who
feels that he is called to be a Chaplain). We want to thank Justin
Gowin for bringing the white bean chili...sure was good. Justin gave
a report from the Mexico border that members of his church have been
doing missionary work for 2 months. They have had truck load of clothes
and food to take down and they have been asked to take loads across
the border to distribute to those in need their. Our God has been
working marvelous with that group. Chaplain Sireka Arrendando was
at the Havins Unit preparing to start working with them on an Anger
Management class. Chaplain Gary Smith was also out there with the
Christian Motorcycle group to hold a Revival. Be in prayer for his
family he lost his aunt. Chaplain Ed Husley was working with the Chrisis
Chaplain Service where he is employeed full time. There are several
companies that have asked for Chaplains...2 nursing homes, TYC, GS4
needing assistance chaplains. Those chaplains present were asked to
sign the Statement of Belief and the back page of the Code of Ethics,
pages to be mailed to home office. The group is in agreement to help
with St. Jude's Children's Hospital in raising funds with the home
office. Discussions were also done on nursing homes, the affiliated
subordinate ministry, Great Non-profits, Bullying, and the member
Get-Away from Star of Texas, Human Trafficking. Please keep my wife
and I, Sandy, in your prayers...we've made some major decesions this
year and the Lord has blessed us with one...we've been approved for
a manufactured home, funds were obtained for our down payment and
the house will be delivered the end of the month. Our God is an awesome
God!!!! We ask that all CFMI members to keep the home office in our
prayers, praying for Don & Tina, Shannon and Joanne. They do some
awesome work by keeping up with all of the CFMI members. Thanks for
all you do. God Bless Chaplain Dale Stearns of Brownwood. TX.
Thank
you for your report, Chaplain Gibson
DEATH
NOTIFICATION:
Folks
we are very sad to report the death of Chief chaplain Sonny Fox from
California. His wife called notified us that Sonny had a stroke and
died. Sonny was a man who was full of life and never had any health
problems to speak of, it came sudden without any warning. Dr. Fox
was a motorsports chaplain who was often a guest on the Christian
car guy's radio show. Sonny was also a retired Navy commander and
elder of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries. Please join with us here
at the office keeping his wife Linda in our prayers, she is a very
humble, sweet kind and caring lady who not only lost her husband,
she also lost her best friend!. Chief Chaplain Sonny Fox was 66 years
old.Thank you for your time, Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Bob W. Rudichar reporting in from Wyoming:
God be praised for the opportunity to serve Him and to do so
through affiliation with CFMI! For January/February, I offer the following
events: 165 ministry contacts. Attended ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention
Skills Training) 2-day workshop. Attended Healthcare Coalition 2-day
workshop. Recruited, interviewed new On-Call and Associate Chaplains
(8 in all) and began latest Chaplain Training workshop at the Healthcare
Science and Education Center at the Gillette College campus. This
will bring our number of On-Call/Associate Chaplains to 26. Recruited
2 more Abiders for a total of 18. Conducted New Nurse Orientation
CNA classes on death notification, CISM introduction, and resident/staff
grief (overall, 32 in attendance). Provided assist with a suicide
intervention. 2 major hospitals called and asked about our volunteer
chaplain training program. We were happy to share our materials with
them for adaptation to their specific needs. It is a wholesome delight
and privilege to be able to serve as a clinical chaplain. As much
as I enjoy reaching out to patients, family members and staff, I take
even greater pleasure in facilitating opportunity for our volunteer
staff to offer their services and make a difference in our community.
It is pure enjoyment to watch various ones rise to greater heights
of service as the Lord blesses them with even further responsibilities.
Equipping the saints for service! God be praised for this privilege.
Respectfully submitted Master Chaplain Bob W. Rudichar / Thank you
for your report CH Rudichar /Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Ron Jones reporting in from Florida: Greetings,
Just wanted to let CFMI and our brothers and sisters know that the
various training that has been made available to us is excellent.
Having completed Pastoral Crisis Counseling, Disaster Response, Cultural
Diversity and Spirituality and now working on the Domestic Violence
course, I have found them to be among some of the most informative,
well written, and useful courses I have taken, not to mention the
price is outstanding for members. I would encourage others to take
advantage of this training as it has helped to open ministry doors
and I have had no problem with being recognized with the credentials
we are provided. I currently serve on two CISM teams for first responders
as their chaplain and peer support along with two other national organizations
that have accepted my life experience and credentialing through CFMI
as a chaplain. Thank you chaplain Gibson, staff, and directors for
the hard work you have done that makes this ministry what it is, may
God continue to bless this ministry and what it does for the kingdom.
In His Service, Ron Jones, Florida / Thyank you for your report Chaplain
Jones.
Respectfully Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Robert Volk reporting in from New York: Dr. Gibson, It
has been awhile since I last contacted CFMI but I wanted to give an
update to the ministry that I have been involved in. I was accepted
as a Chaplain Candidate for the NYARNG and am currently at Chaplain
Basic Officer Leadership Course at Ft. Jackson. This could not have
happened without God leading me to CFMI and CFGC. Thank you so much
for allowing me this opportunity. Robert F. Volk Thank you Chaplain
Volk for the update!
Member's
Update: Members
can check for news and updates on this ministry page, or on our Facebook
ministry page just .
Chaplains need to get involved, help stop bullying:
Folks
as Chaplains it is our responsibility to help in our communities with
crisis situations. This is also true about our schools and children
being abused by bullying. Chaplains can help schools, and children
and parents to better understand and recognize bullying by training
them; you have the information in this download that would help educate
people in the community regarding bullying. You will find the information
below. Furthermore you can share this information with others so they
can get involved working to help stop bullying. PLEASE NOTE: LEO,
Fire and emergency service chaplains can offer this training to schools
and the public through your department which would be great PR for
your chaplaincy program and the department. http://www.homeland-crisis.org/Bullying_1.zip.
Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
James (J.D.) Nolin reporting in from Florida: After
serving over 30 years as a law enforcement officer, I retired as a
Major with the Bay County Sheriff’s Office in Florida ,and God
called me into the ministry, I know all too well the dangers both
physical and spiritual that law enforcement officers face every day.
I know that true officer survival is more than just a gun and bullet
proof vest, but it is having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ
as your Lord and Savior. I feel God has called me to bring and to
share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with all those in law enforcement
and their families. To carry out this calling, I started a ministry
called Brotherhood of Christian Law Enforcement Officers we provide
Free bibles to Law Enforcement Officers A Memorial bible to the family
of any officer that is killed in the line of duty A 24 hour, 7 days
a week, on-line bible study for officers A web site where officers
can pose a biblical question, share a praise report, or make a prayer
request. We also provide encouragement, comfort and aid to Law Enforcement
Officers or their families in times of crisis. Speaking engagements
anywhere the perspectives and expertise of Christian Law Enforcement
Officers could be of benefit. Within 2014 the Lord has given me the
opportunity and honor to have officiated three wedding ceremonies
and three funerals for Law Enforcement Officers and their families,
and conduct over twenty-five hospital visitations. We have provided
over 105 free bibles to officers who made a request through our web
site at www.bcleo.org, within 2014 we have had 106 officers killed
in the line of duty or to die from a duty related injury and we have
provided memorial bibles to every family of each fallen officers.
We also provided memorial bibles to each of the fallen officer’s
agencies chief or sheriff. I would like to thank all the men and women
that serve in Law Enforcement everyday to kept us safe, also I want
to thank all my brothers and sisters in the Chaplain Fellowship Ministries
for all they do. May God Bless you all. Thank you for your field report
Chaplain Nolin, Chaplain Gibson
Ministry Update: Folks due to Tina and I’s age and to
assure for the stability and advancement of Chaplain Fellowship ministries
we are increasing the ministry board of directors from three members
to 7 members. This will assure the ministry will be stable and safe
from attempted take overs or greedy people who would change the mission
and purpose of the ministry, attempts have already been made in the
past which we have been able to stopped cold. Having an even stronger
board of directors will be a blessed asset. Also I have been offer
the position of Senior Bishop of the Wesley Synod of North America
due to the death of our dear brother Senior Bishop Steven Sanchez.
I accepted this appointment with the understanding it is for just
long enough to help get everything stable and appoint one of our members
who is a Methodist minister. This member came out of the United Methodist
church and did graduate from the Methodist Seminary. I have no choice
at my age but to accept this position only on a temporary basis, besides
Chaplain Fellowship Ministries is 25 years of my life, it is my calling
and a ministry I love with all my heart because of the lives it has
touched and the work being done by members worldwide. I will retain
my position that I have already been appointed to by the Wesley Synod
in Canterbury England, as the Bishop and presiding prelate of the
Southern United States. Folks my reason for keeping this position
gives us the ability to help our members who have left the Methodist
church to again become ordained Methodist ministers and receive Methodist
church charters as their covering through the Wesley Synod in Canterbury
England. The Wesley Synod a full Original Methodist and Historical
Apostolic Synod, dating back to the 1800s and the C.M.E. Churches
of America. The main office is in Canterbury England. The Senior Bishop
is the Right Revd. Dr. Anthony Cowles who retired from the Church
of England before becoming the Senior Bishop of the Wesley Synod.
Bishop Cowles has been a dear friend for many years and spent his
life doing the Lord’s work worldwide, he is a wonderful, blessed
man, he has also been a member of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries since
2001. PLEASE understand that this DOES NOT in any way affects Chaplain
Fellowship Ministries members or the ministry as a nondenominational
ministry, again folks, it changes nothing, or affects our members
in any way. It does give us the ability to provide some of our members
WHO ARE Methodist an opportunity to receive their cover to start a
Methodist church. Folks I posted this so when the rumors start you
will already know the truth, some people have the most amazing way
of twisting or distorting the truth. Have a wonderful and blessed
day, Chaplain Gibson
THE
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACTIVE SHOOTERS AND TERRORISTS: An
Active Shooter Incident (ASI) is not a terrorist attack. However,
since each murderous incident is focused on the execution of innocents,
it is understandable why the media associates a terrorist attack at
a Kenyan mall with ASIs in the US. The tactics employed by terrorists
may be somewhat similar to an Active Shooter (AS), but the cause and
the effect of an ASI and a terrorist attack are not the same. The
differences between the two can easily be overlooked when one is to
make sense out of a senseless act. This is the very reason these incidents
at first glance appear to be similar when each is quite different.
Sharing needed information.
Chaplain
Rick Atkins reporting in: Chaplain Gibson and CFMI Brethren: Just
wanted to share with you all that I have been selected as one of five
inaugural members of the Bexar County Precinct 3 Constable's Office
Chaplaincy Staff. We did our first ride along this past Friday night
and it was awesome. What's even more amazing and wonderful is that
the constable, Mark Vojvodich is a devout Christian man who is not
ashamed of our faith. In fact, at the entrance to the office is a
passage from the Book of Romans! It's such a blessing to know that
we still have good people in public service! As you may or may not
know, I am also in the process of planting a church and our start
date will be March 23, 2014. I ask for your continued prayers in this
process. Take care for now and may God bless you all.....In His Service,
Chaplain Rick Atkins. Thank you for your update Chaplain Atkins,
Chaplain Gibson
Field report from Chaplain Dwight Menix New Mexico: Greetings
from the Land of Enchantment. What a busy Month of May! The school
year was ending and summer was approaching fast. However, we are in
the middle of a 3 year drought and we are praying that we will not
have a repeat of last year's destructive wild fire.On a more positive
note, as I mentioned in one of my past reports in which the young
girl that I have been counseling for just over a year has been wanting
me to take her horse back riding in the mountains. We finally took
our first ride this past week for about 3 hours. I believe that this
was very therapeutic for this young girl; she opened up and expressed
her feelings which have been locked up for quite sometime and she
has planned our future rides. Moreover, there are now two more young
girls that want to go on our next ride. I asked these young girl's
parents if they were ok with them going horse back in the mountains
and they gave me their blessing. This may be a great start to a Youth
Ministry program.Have a Great Summer!God Bless!Chaplain Menix Thank
you for your report and all the hard work you do in the Lords' ministry.
Chaplain Gibson
Field
Report from Chaplain Dale Stearns, in Brownwood, TX,
we
have a monthly Chaplain Get-Together on the 3rd Saturday of the month
at 5:30 pm at High Mesa Cowboy Church. We provide a FREE meal on this
night and everybody enjoys that. We have some new members that have
joined CFMI and got a couple that are getting the paperwork together.
We are asking for prayer for Oklahoma. My wife and I went up Saturday
with two fellow church members to deliver stuffed animals for the
children, water and clothes. One can't imagine such devastation in
the area, we pray for encouragement to overcome this...that insurance
companies will assist these people...that the cities can get the area
cleaned up...and that the Lord will place fellow Brother and Sisters
in Christ around the people in this area. Chappy, we appreciate all
that you do for this ministry, you've assisted so many people and
words can not be expressed for all that you do. The CFMI Staff has
been wonderful and that they have worked beyond the call of duty.
Thank You Brother...and We will be in continued prayer for ALL OF
THE STAFF AND THE MEMBERS OF CFMI. God Bless each and everyone of
you...Chaplain Dale Stearns and Sandy Stearns, my wife.
Thank
you and your dear wife Chaplain Sterns for your report and all the
hard work you both do in the Lords' ministry. Chaplain Gibson
DEATH
NOTIFICATION, Master Chaplain Randee Mc Graw:
Hi
everyone. I am sorry but I do not know some of you and I may be sending
e-mails to the wrong people. Just bear with me please. Randee is no
longer around. He had been having a lot of problems and last Sunday
was really a bad day. I took him to the ER in Vegas on Thursday and
he did not come back home with me. He died @ 7:55 pm Vegas time. They
listed the reason as being Parkinsons, cellulitis with septic. He
had a temp of 103, told me he was having seizures, muscle spasms,
his stomach felt like it was on fire and just basically has been in
so much pain 24/7 for so long he was ready to go. He was DNR and he
was not living any kind of a life. It was so hard having him leave
me but I know he is in a much better life without pain and being around
people/animals he has known and loved. My name is Sharon McGraw and
my phone number is 309-264-0092. If you were invited to our welcome
home party--it is still going to happen. Also, please tell everyone
you know as I am sure I have missed a lot of people only because I
did not know everyone that he knew that I needed to send this to.
Thank you so much everyone! We are so sorry to hear that Chaplain
Mc Graw has passed away. Chaplain McGraw was formally with the Chicagp
Police Department and Disabled VietNam Veteran. Please keep his wife
Sharon and his family in prayer. Chaplain Mc Graw was a wonderful
dedicated Chaplain! Chaplain Gibson
Welcome
to this week new members: Chaplain
Joel Rodriguez from North Carolina, Chaplain Rudy Heckard from Maryland,
Chaplain Sheryl Myers from Texas, Chaplain Elizabeth Niermann from
Ohio. Welcome from the staff and members of CFMI. Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS: Chaplain Marsha Mann from Tennessee has been
promoted to Master Chaplain. Chaplain Carmen Panaro from New York
has been promoted to Senior Chaplain. Congratulations on a job well
done. Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
Chaplain Scott Willis from Texas: Master Chaplain Scott Willis
reported in to announce that he has been selected as the VA Chaplain
at the Amarillo, Texas VA Hospital. Thanks to God and Chaplain Fellowship
Ministries for believing in me and encouraging me. Thanks Chaplain
Scott Willis. Congratulations brother Willis - Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to Chaplain Skip Straus from Texas: Chaplain Skip Straus was
invited to serve as Pastor of the Day in the Texas House of Representatives.
As Pastor of the Day, Skip gave the invocation on February 5th at
the beginning of the daily session of the Texas House of Representatives.
Chaplain Straus, a former firefighter/paramedic from the Spring, Texas
area, Skip is also the founded of the non-profit organization, Emergency
Ministries, Inc. He is contracted to assist the Acadian CSI team in
providing Critical Support Intervention to Texas employees. Congratulations
Skip! This is a huge honor and we are all very proud of you. Chaplain
Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to Chaplain Norman Dennis from the United Kingdom: Chaplain
Norman Dennis has been promoted to the Commander of the United Kingdom.
CMDR Dennis has been the chaplain for the American Embassy in kuwait
the passs two years. Now that he is returning home to the United Kingdom
he will hold the position of Commander of CFMI United Kingdom. We
are looking forward to working with Commander Dennis as he goes about
doing the work of the chaplaincy. From the leadership and staff of
CFMI we congratulate Commander Dennis on his promotion.
Chaplain
Dwight Menix from New Mexico reporting in: Greetings from
New Mexico. During the months of November and December I have continued
to minister to the young girl who had lost her stepfather last year
in a horse accident. She has made great progress and has now acknowledged
that believing in God is not anything to be ashamed of. I continue
to pray for her and her family to accept God as their personal Savior.
Next, I continue to work with and minister to the young mother of
a two year old son who's father has left them and is in a bitter court
custody case. She is still attending church and trusts that God will
lead her in this dispute. Finally, as a school teacher in a small
rural community, I have observed numerous children coming to school
with worn out shoes and clothing; therefore, for the past two months
I have been collecting donations from all the teachers in my school
and members of my community to by these kids a pair of new shoes,
belts, coats, etc. The look on these chilren's faces was priceless
when they recieved their gift. Merry Christmas and May God Bless!
Thank you for your report and all the hard work to do in the Lords'
ministry. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
David Barbour reporting in from North Carolina: Greetings
fellow members, just wanted to drop a ministry and praise report to
everyone. I still serve as resident chaplain and christian counselor,
and relief pastor at Freedom Chapel Church in Benson NC. This has
been a tremendous blessing in not only helping others but also in
keeping me seeking our heavenly Father for the answers that so many
need in their journey in this life. Among my normal duties I've had
the pleasure of starting a youth discipleship class ranging from 15
- 18 year olds. It has been amazing to watch our class grow over the
past months in size and scope, and to see our youth hungry to know
our Lord and Saviour. Their thirst for knowledge and willingness to
learn is so refreshing. Keep us in your prayers as you are always
in mine, may God richly bless all you do for the Kingdom of God and
His Christ. Thank
you for your report and all the hard work to do in the Lords' ministry.
Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Tom Newcomb reporting in from Ohio: I
continue to serve at North east Community Church of the Nazarene in
the rural area of Parkman, Ohio as community chaplain. Our church
has been a church planting for seven years and as God has blessed
we just incorporated as an official congregation and we are looking
at renting a permanent space in an abandoned school building. My duties
include supporting our pastor as an associate pastor, chairing ministry
coordination of all teams, and providing chaplain services in intervention,
counsel, visitation, referral and prayer support. Your prayers for
our ministry are always appreciated, including for my wife Kathy who
heads up women's ministry. Our NEC mission is simple: "learning
to love God and love people." Blessings to all of you who serve
at CFMI. Thank you for your report and all the hard work to do
in the Lords' ministry. Chaplain Gibson
CMDR
James Manning reporting in from Georgia: Isaiah 54:17 states,
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue
that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This
is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness
is of me, saith the Lord. As servants of our Lord we are confronted
with so much worldly negativity from those who try to keep God's word
and His work for mankind from moving forward but Isaiah 54:17 give
us comforting encouragement. There is great effort in the forges and
smithies of the enemy. They are hard at work to silent God's saints
from moving forward with God's message and His work. Those who are
consider His enemies are hard at work forging weapons of discontent
and disharmony with this world. But God's tell us through Isaiah,
their plains shall not prosper. There is another treat toward God's
saints and that is the strife of tongues. Tongues are more terrible
instruments that can be made with a hammer an anvil, and evil which
they inflict cuts deeper and spreads wider. What will become of us
now? Slander, falsehood, insinuation, ridicule-these are poisoned
arrows; how can we meet them? The Lord God promised us that, if we
cannot silence them, we shall, at least, escape from being ruined
by them. They condemn us for the moment, but we shall condemn them
at last and forever. The mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped,
and their falsehoods shall be turned to the honor of those good men
and women who suffered by them. Remember my brothers and sisters the
say no weapons form against shall prosper. I pray that word will encourage
us to continue to move for for up lifting of God Kingdom. Be bless
my brother and sister Chaplains. Members in Georgia can contact CMDR
Manning by email. manning@chaplain-ministries.org - Thank you for
your report and all the hard work to do in the Lords' ministry. Chaplain
Gibson.
Chaplain Walter Campbell from Georgia reporting in:
Had
a few setbacks for a couple of months but by the grace of God I am
still very active in ministry. Ministering to those that are Hospice
patients and the residents in nursing homes is always a blessing.
I am constantly reminded that my troubles and struggles are minimal.
What a blessing it is to just put a smile on some ones face. There
is always joy in the continuous cycle of reintroduction. Even when
I am down I am lifted up by those that I come in contact with. Next
week I will be honoring those who have served our country and those
who are serving at a nursing facility. Thank you for the information
that was sent to me to assist me in planning the event. Thank
you for your report and all the hard work to do in the Lords' ministry.
Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Dwight Menix reporting in from New Mexico: Greetings from
New Mexico! During the past two months after working with many families
that were greatly affected by this summer's forest fire, I was informed
by my family doctor that my white blood count had dropped dangerously
low. However, I have been working with a young single mother who was
living with the father of their 2 year old son. One day he came home
packed his bags and left her and his child for another woman. During
this time they were getting child custody and support worked out by
attorneys. This young mother was struggling to work full time pay
bills while the father refused to help support their son. I finally
got this young woman to start attending church with my wife and I.
One Sunday while at church she asked me how I was so sure that someone
didn't just write the bible and said that we had to believe everything
is said. I explained to her how many people and how long it took to
write the bible and that they all agree on the same message. Still
this young woman continued to attend church with us; then one day
we received a call that her son's father had taken their son and she
could not find them and he would not return her phone calls. This
continued for about two weeks. During this time my wife and I stayed
by her side, prayed for her and with her. Finally we got a phone call
from her informing us that she was getting her son back the next day.
She told us that she finally turned her life over to God and gave
him complete control over her situation and as soon as she did she
received a phone call from the police that they had found her son
and was bringing him home to her. This truly proves that God is in
control of everything. God is good. Also, after all this I went in
last month for another blood test and the results even surprised my
doctors; my white blood count had risen from nearly nothing to in
the middle of the normal blood count range. We give God all the praise
and glory for these two miracles. Amen!!! Praise
the Lord, thank you for your report and all the hard work to do in
the Lords' ministry. Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to CMDR Candido C. Vendrell from Puerto Rico: Chaplain Candido
C. Vendrell has been appointed as the Commander for Puerto Rico. CMDR
Vendrell has already had CFMI-Puerto Rico incorporated in Puerto Rico
as a legal Ministry, meaning that Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International
is recognized as a legal entity. CFMI-Puerto Rico will become a legal
nonprofit public charity after the first of the year. We are very
happy to have CMDR Vendrell working
with us and are looking forward to great kingdom work being done for
the glory of God's kingdom in Puerto Rico. Thank you for your time!
MEMO
TO MEMBERS: Memo
to all members who attended the conference. Thank you for your fellowship
kindness and understanding. To all the speakers, we cannot thank you
enough for the great job each of you did in presentation. We want
to thank Steve and Bobby from the Humble House for providing the Van
again this year to get everyone where they had to be. We want to thank
Mary for her powerful testimony, she touched everyone's hearts, we
are very proud of Mary and she will do a wonderful and blessed job
with the women's rehab house. Congratulations to Chaplain James Manning
from Georgia and Chaplain Terry Wildman from MO who were promoted
to Commander of their respected states. Again thank you everyone Chaplain
Gibson!
Chaplain
Bob W. Rudichar from Wyoming reporting in:
Events for September include: 114
ministry contacts; CISM/grief/trauma presentation to the Central Wyoming
Rescue Mission in Casper, Wyoming under the auspices of the Rocky
Mountain Region Disaster Mental Health Institute, Laramie,Wyoming;
conducted quarterly meetings/luncheons for our On-Call Chaplains,
Associate Chaplains, and Abiders with an administrative presentation
on CODE SILVER (active shooter program) as mandated by our hospital,
CCMH; took the FEMA IS-00907 Active Shooter on-line course; concluded
final phase of our 4-part LODD CISM training for our Healthcare Emergency
Action Response Team (H.E.A.R.T.) with a PASS (Post-Action Staff Support)
demonstration. We have come to the conclusion after a massive effort
to prepare ourselves for the possibility of an active shooter scenario
that such an event would be very complicated and very unlikely to
be covered by our in-house Team because of our potential exposure.
More than likely, we believe it would be necessary to draw support
for interventions from an outside source or sources. Am presently
working with the Team & Training Coordinator for the Campbell
County CISM Team to organize a 3-course/2-day CISM conference in Gillette
during the month of March, 2013. Details to follow. Blessings to all!
Respectfully submitted: Chaplain Bob W. Rudichar
MEMO
TO MEMBERS: For
a limit time most of the prices on chaplain patches pocket guides
and clip on ID cards have been reduced, so items cut in half. You
can find the links in the member's area or below. Bless everone! Training
pocket guides:
Chaplain's
supplies catalog:
Chaplain,
Minister and Pastor custom clip ministry ID card:
Chaplain
Bob Rudichar reporting in form Wyoming: What a privilege to serve
the LORD, CFMI, a hospital, and a church! At the invitation of the
Rocky Mountain Region Disaster Mental Health Institute, gave a presentation
at the Wyoming Medical Center, Casper, Wyoming, on the development
and evolution of our Chaplain Services department at Campbell County
Memorial Hospital. Presentation included development and implementation
(d/i) of Chaplain Services, d/i of the Campbell County CISM Team,
and the d/i of the Healthcare Emergency Action Response Team (HEART).
Also discussed "How To" classes I've developed on starting
volunteer chaplaincy programs and CISM teams in rural communities.
Conducted 2 funerals. 115 ministry contacts for the month. Respectfully
submitted, Chaplain Bob W. Rudichar Senior Chaplain. Thank you for
your report! Chaplain
Gibson
Chaplain
Skip Straus is a member of CFMI and the founder of Emergency Ministries.
Skip has provided us with the following links, I hope you enjoy his
videos. An interview Skip did with a Christian Radio station on the
10th anniversary of 9-11. 
Critical Incident Stress:
Texting/Driving:
Drinking/Driving:
Thank you Chaplain Skip!
Chaplain
Scott Ebright reporting in from Afghanistan: I became a chaplain
through CFM about a year ago when I learned that I may be deploying
to the middle east. I was already a Lay Pastor in the United Methodist
Church taking all the training to be a UMC Licensed Local Pastor and
planned to eventually seek ordainment as an Elder in the UMC. I did
much of the pastoral care (aka Chaplain duties) for a mega-church
in my area. Somewhere during the pastor licensing process, I felt
a calling to go to the war-torn middle east and minister to the troops.
The military was not desperate enough to take me back. (I am a former
US Army Paratrooper with high marks and an honorable discharge.) At
the time I was morbidly obese and in my late 40's. IOW, I was too
old and too fat! After several months of praying to God to clarify
this calling that I was feeling, a job opportunity presented itself
as an answer to my prayers. I stumbled upon an opening (in my day-job
field) that would take me right to where the troops are. I applied.
My application zoomed right to the top of the list. I do not think
I was any more qualified than the other candidates, so God must have
had a hand in that. I found out that my deployment would force me
to put my pastor licensing and ordainment plans on hold. That is when
I applied to CFM. I am still old, but I am about 100 pounds lighter
than when this all started. I have been deployed in Afghanistan now
for over 4 months. My work calls for quite a bit of travel around
Afghanistan and allows me to interact directly with dozens of different
deployers each week. These folks are military, civil servants, and
contractors. The vast majority are American and most of them are military
members. There are even a few non-American folks to whom I get to
minister from time-to-time. The story below is a true account of a
night in Afghanistan. Please feel free to share this with the other
Chaplains. The following is the story as told by Chaplain Ebright:
I recently spent some time at a BO FOB...What is that?It stands for
a Black-Out Forward Operating Base. These are bases that are so close
to the enemy that they keep very strict light discipline. The idea
is to not illuminate any tempting targets for the bad guys to shoot
at. One of the cool side effects of this security practice is the
relative silence. You see, most of these remote bases have generators
running for power. Without the need for lights, most of the generators
can be turned off. The silence also helps the guards hear any approaching
enemy. Obviously, another side effect is nearly pitch-black darkness,
all night. When there is no moon, it is an amazing darkness. These
“side effects” reminded me of some camping trips in my youth…
And, of field exercises I participated in when I was in the Army...
And, even of the camping excursions when I was a Boy Scout leader.
It was nice to relive such memories in such an inhospitable environment.
But the thing that took my breath away was when I looked up into the
sky. The silence and the darkness combined with the altitude (around
4000 feet), the clear un-polluted air, the clear sky, and the lack
of a moon. The total picture was a sky filled with more stars than
I have ever seen in one view. The vastness of God's universe is overwhelming.
The beauty of the lights in His heavens is stunning beyond my words.
The whole sight became humbling. I began to ask myself the questions
we all ask sometime in our lives. How can I ever understand a God
that knows each and every one of those stars by name? The same God
that knows each hair on every head on Earth. How insignificant am
I compared to that power; that intelligence??? And, How unworthy am
I of this beautiful gift in the sky above me and the very life He
breathed into me? The truth is... These are all questions to which
I cannot TRULY understand the answers. I am unworthy, but He loves
me, anyway. I am undeserving of that heavenly sight, but He put it
before me, anyway. I do not need to know the answers, but He instilled
the drive in me that compels me to ask, anyway. While I do not know
the answers, I do understand the course of action that needs to be
taken. I need to feed my drive for knowledge with His word. Along
that journey, I need to try not to question His beautiful gifts, and
just enjoy them. In the midst of a war-torn country, God gave us all
a beautiful sight to raise our spirits. We just had to look up and
realize how blessed we are. As I walked through the darkness pondering
this, I found an old broken down office chair near the edge of the
compound. The back of the chair was stuck in the reclined position.
My work day had lasted about 30 hours and I could use a little sit-down
time. I sat down, leaned back, stared into the lights above the darkness,
and thanked God for allowing me to realize how blessed I was. With
the enemy not much more than a football field away, I kept praying
until I fell asleep in that chair. When I awoke, about 30 minutes
later, I felt refreshed and immediately saw that beautiful sky again.
I smiled, thanked God for the blessings, I continued my journey into
the dark night. When I was a few steps away, I looked back and could
barely see the chair. I wondered who else had used that chair as I
had. How many people paused there to enjoy their blessings and thank
God for those gifts? Then I realized that I was back to asking questions!
I laughed a little at myself. It does not matter who or how many.
God will guide each of us to the point where we relax into His plan
for us and just enjoy His love. We all just need to pause to thank
Him and He will provide a front row seat to the beauty of the universe.
IHS, - Chaplain Scott Thank you for your report, and for sharing with
us, Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Edward Brouwer reporting in from Canada: Greetings in Jesus name.
Brother Gibson may we first say thank you for the wonderful documents
you sent us regarding our Chaplaincy. We proudly shared them with
our church last week. We are planning a unique ministry opportunity
for our community (4,500 pop) this Fall and Winter. We are preparing
a C.E.R.T. course not only for our church members but the community
at large. It is our hope to equip the saints in a practical manner
to be of help in the case of emergency situations. Our greatest threat
is Wildland Urban Interface fires. Just this past week-end a community
near us was evacuated (1500 people) due to a wildland fire. Although
hundreds of homes were saved we did lose four houses. As I tried to
explain in previous correspondence FEMA will allow us to take the
courses at no charge but will not recognize the exam results. (These
same courses in Canada would cost us thousands of dollars.) Several
years ago I completed three courses on Emergency Response To Terrorism.
At that time they would recognize Canadian students. Thank you for
your patience with us as we pursue Disaster Response certification.
Honored to be part of CFMI. I just completed a four part series on
PTSD in the Fire Service (Silent Killer) for Canada's leading Fire
Service magazine "Firefighting In Canada". It has received
great reviews and may be used to address this issue before the Canadian
Government. We are praying for the USA and the recent issues in the
Middle East. Ed Brouwer Canwest Fire Services Eagles Nest Ministries.
Thank you for your kind remarks and report. Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to Chaplain Henry Curtis from New York: Lion of Judah Annual
Award Banquet 2012. Honor to whom it's due. this is the second year
in a row that a CFMI-NY chaplain is being recognized along with some
excellent high profile area ministers who are often in the local news
in a good way. Last year, our own Chaplain Larry Wolf was honored.
This year I was selected. I am honored and grateful to accept this
award on behalf of all of our dedicated chaplains who faithfully labor
in the service of others for the glory given to our Lord and Savior,
Jesus Christ. It is OK according to Mark 4:21. “Some things in
life are too important not to share. In the same way, a leader must
ensure that his “good news” isn’t the world’s
best kept secret. A wise leader will see the mission at the center
of his efforts.”~ The Leadership Lessons of Jesus by Bob Briner.
Thank you Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Gretchen Jacobs reporting in from Arizona: My licensure and ordination
as a Chaplain allows me to have a private Christian Counseling practice
in my community and I am also the Counselor for my church. I specialize
in grief counseling and provide workshops in the area as well. Additionally,
I volunteer at Odyssey Hospice which allows me the privilege of ministering
to both those saved and not-yet-saved. I couldn't have my counseling
ministry without CFMI. Thank you so much. Chaplain Gretchen Jacobs.
Thank you Chaplain Jacobs for the work that you do, and the kind words
to CFMI. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Dwight Menix reporting in from Nedw Mexico: This has been a very
busy summer here in the mountains of Southeast New Mexico. As per
my June update on the Field Report site, we had a massive wildfire
that covered 50,000 acres and destroyed 274 homes. after the fire
was contained and the cleanup began, my wife and I provided assistance
to many friends and families who had lost their homes. Also, we would
go and pray with these families for God's blessing for a full recovery
and to rebuild their lives and homes. The recovery is still going
on even into the month of September. However, many of these families
that were deeply affected by the fire are slowly gaining some normal
routines back into their lives. We continue to pray for and help these
victims each and everyday. God Bless! Chaplain Dwight Menix, Capitan,
New Mexico. Thank you for your report and service! Chaplain Gibson
MEMBER'S UPDATE:
Effective September 1st 2012 all
ID cards will be the 30 mill PVC "Plastic" cards with holograph
seals of authenticity, and magnetic strip on the back like a driver's
license. Member's information will be encoded in the magnetic strip. These
are professional ID cards! Furthermore new criminal background
checks are run every year at membership renewal time. Thank
you for your time! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Larry Todd reporting in from Texas:
I just spoke with one of our emergency response chaplains in New Orleans.
He was calm, but noted they have had some serious calls. There are
several roof top rescues from folks who were asked to evacuate, but
did not. He indicated they have plenty of help and the Louisiana National
Guard seems to be everywhere. He said he is not aware of any deaths
or life threatening injuries. Texas is not anticipated to be effected
by this storm. By that, the TV weather wags indicated some rain in
deep East Texas. There have been no alerts from the Texas Emergency
Management officials. This chaplain did request prayer (s) for the
victims and for the first responders.
Thank you Larry! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Mike Edwards reporting in from Texas: Greetings
from Dallas, Texas to CFMI officers and members. I started out my
Chaplain ministry as a volunteer Workplace Chaplain for a large manufacturing
company for 10 years. Since retiring I became involved as a Chaplain
for my grandsons Boy Scout Troop for the past 2 years. I also serve
as a District Religious Emblems Coordinator for Circle 10 Council.
This involves presenting the Religious Awards Program to Scout Troops
sponsored by many different faiths teaching the P.R.A.Y. God and Country
courses for the Protestant and Non-Denominations. The 12th point of
the Scout Law is a Scout is Reverent. It is truely a blessing to be
able to have a direct spiritual impact on the minds and lives of our
youth. Many do not attend Church. I also serve as Chaplain for three
Military associations and officiate weddings and Military funerals
for Military personnel and their families. Many thanks for all of
the training offered by CFMI. I am working on a couple now. Keep up
the good work. Thank you for your
report, Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to Chaplain
James Manning from Georgia: Chief
Chaplain James Manning has completed the disaster response certification
program. Disaster Response Chaplains are First Responders in their
own right. There are no short cuts for Disastrer Response Chaplains,
proper training means everything in times of disaster and crisis.
Again Congratulations Brother Manning! Chaplain Gibson
MEMO
TO ALL MEMBERS:
Due to the shooting in Aurora Colorado we believe Disaster Response
Chaplains must have the following training offered by FEMA-
IS-907
- Active Shooter: What You Can Do: An
active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting
to kill people in a confined and other populated area. In most cases,
active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to
their selection of victims. Active shooter situations are unpredictable
and evolve quickly. All employees can help prevent and prepare for
potential active shooter situations. This course provides guidance
to individuals, including managers and employees, so that they can
prepare to respond to an active shooter situation. Thank you for
your time! Chaplain Don Gibson
MEMO
TO ALL MEMBERS: Chaplain Russell L. Farmer has been appointed
as the Corporate Ministry Secretary. His duties will consist of those
that are common to a Corporate Secretary. Chaplain Farmer will also
be in charge of the affiliate sub ministry program, it mis his responsabality
to make sure all affiliate ministries are in compliance with IRS rules
and regulation, and CFMI rules and regulations regarding affiliate
ministries.
Chaplain
Bob W. Rudichar reporting in from Wyoming: Greetings!...to
the wonderful folk at CFMI!!! Completed formal class training, shadowing,
solos, final evaluations and endorsements for our 5 new Associate
Chaplains at Campbell County Memorial Hospital. This brings the total
number of people serving through the office of Chaplain Services to
46. The areas of service are : On-Call Chaplains (clergy-10); Associate
Chaplains (laity-13); Abiders (community volunteers who serve with
those at the end of life-17, includes 2 chaplains); and H.E.A.R.T.
(Healthcare Emergency Action Response Team-9, includes 6 hospital
employees, 2 volunteer chaplains, and myself serving the company CISM
team). 76 ministry contacts. Taught Caregiver Grief and Dying, Intro
to CISM in the Healthcare Setting, and Sudden, Unexpected Death Notification
Protocol to new nurse hires and CNA classes with 16 in attendance.
Began writing training scenarios for our H.E.A.R.T. monthly meetings.
Focused on a strategic planning demonstration regarding a medical
LODD for this month's training exercise. Developed orientation/training
PPT for the Christian Motorcyclists Association, Chapter 888 Chaplains.
This is a new service from a wonderful community entity that will
provide special support to victims of motorcycle-related accidents.
We had an hour class with 12 in attendance followed by orientation
in the ER to meet staff and go over protocol. We were privileged to
have the State Coordinator and local chapter President in attendance,
as well. Respectfully submitted, Chaplain Bob W. Rudichar. Thank
you very much for a great field report. Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to Chaplain
Christopher Brown from Utah:
Chaplain
Christopher Brown has completed the required training to be certified
as a Master Chaplain. Congratulations
brother! Chaplain Gibson
WARNING
TO MEMBERS WHO HAVE HOME CHURCHES: Phoenix
Pastor Jailed, Fined for Hosting Home Bible Studies! A
Phoenix man was fined and punished with jail time for holding Bible
studies in his home. He began his 60-day sentence Monday morning.
Michael Salman, an ordained pastor and restaurant owner, has been
ordered to pay more than $12,000 in fines and faces three years of
probation for hosting weekly religious meetings on his property.
Read
the whole story at the following link - Phoenix
Pastor Jailed
Chief
Chaplain Terry Wildman reporting in from Missouri: There has
been alot happening in missouri the last couple of months in the disaster
ministry. I have been asked to attend several different communities
disaster programs, and I have spoken at litchfield ill. We have put
together a disaster meeting in scott city missouri and had Steve Pace
from doomsday preppers televison show come to speak, along with Jim
Watkins the certs leader from cape girardeau county. We had a great
meeting and a great time, a lot of good information was presented.
We have also started an emergency service chaplain organization. We
will be coming along side of the search and rescue organizations in
missouri and illinois. We have 5 different search and rescue teams
on board with us so far,any chaplain in the state of missouri who
are interested in joining contact the home office, they will contact
us with your information. thanks and god bless you all. Thank you
for your report! Chaplain Gibson
From
the Home Office. Introducing CMDR James A. Manning from Georgia:
CMDR James A. Manning CFMI Georgia Division: It gives me immense pleasure
to introduce myself as Chief Chaplain James A. Manning, Chaplain Fellowship
Ministry Georgia district. I have been a member with this ministry
for some time now and have accepted the position as Chief Chaplain
for Georgia district, as of the last Chaplains 2011 conference, since
moving back to Georgia from Florida. I have discovered that there
are quite a few Chaplains from our ministry located here in Georgia.
Hopefully with God’s direction in the very near further we can
plan a Georgia District Chaplains meeting. I truly look forward to
meeting each one you in a personal forum. How many of you are planning
to attend the upcoming Chaplain’s Fellowship Conference in October
2012? I had the opportunity to attend last year’s conference
and it was very informative and I also had the opportunity to meet
Chaplains from all over the country which was a blessing. Let me give
a little background about myself. I was called the preach the word
of God in 1995 and have served God as an Assistant Pastor for 13 years,
prison ministry 17 years, outreach ministry 12 years and Chaplain
for one of the Federal Agencies for approximately 12 years and Chaplains
Fellowship Ministry for some time now. That is enough about me; all
of this could not have happened without directions and guidance from
God, our creator. My brothers’ spiritual success can only occur
when we truly follow God’s plan and direction for our life. I
am excited to see God fearing dedicated men step up and take a stand
for the uplifting of God’s Kingdom and the CMFI ministry.Yours
sincerely, CMDR James A. Manning. (E-mail; james.manning@att.net or
gerjam66pslel.net) CMDR James Manning has been with CFMI for many
years, we are looking forward to the Georgia Division becoming a mighty
work of the Lord. Thank you! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Dwight Menix reporting in from New Mexico: Greetings from
New Mexico. June was a very busy/disastrous time for the people in
the Capitan, Ruidoso New Mexico area. During the week of June 10th,
we were having winds ranging from 40-50 MPH which cause a lightening
strike fire in the mountains to spread rapidly; this fire lasted for
nearly three weeks burning 270 plus homes and nearly 50,000 acres
of forest. During this time, my wife and I took in friends, family
members and pets who had to evacuate their homes, all the while our
home was still in the path of the fire. For nearly two weeks we collected
food, water and snacks and delivered these supplies to the firefighters,
National Guard and state employees who were fighting the fire 24 hours
a day. Also, my family took up a money collection and distributed
the money to families who had already lost their homes to the fire
so that they could buy the basics such as clothing, food and gas.
The fire is now fully contained, but now this area is having Monsoon
rains which has triggered flash floods. We are continually praying
for and helping those families who have lost everything to the fire
and floods. However, the one positive that has come from this devastating
event is that by God's grace and mercy, not one life was lost to this
massive forest fire. God is good! Thank you for your service and your
field report. Bless you! Chaplain Gibson
CFMI
MEMBERS GET AWAY: Get away from it all! If you are looking
to get away for a week end or longer look into the Star of Texas Bed
& Breakfast in Brownwood Texas. Chaplain Don Morelock and his
wife Debbie own the Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast. Chaplain Morelock
and his wife Debbie is offering CFMI members discounts on their stay
at the Star of Texas during certain times of the year.
to visit their web site and for contact information. If you decide
to visit the Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast let Chaplain Morelock
know you are a member to receive your discount. Tina and I are looking
forward to spending a week or more at the Star of Texas next year.
This
information is provided strictly for members who would enjoy spending
some quality time away from all the hassles of daily life. We would
like to thank Don & Debbie Morelock for their kind offer to CFMI
members. From the leadership, Staff and all CFMI members, Thank you
Don & Debbie, CH Gibson
Memo
to all Members! Chaplain Sonny Fox now has a national Christian Radio
program. General Info: "Recalculating Route with
Dr Sonny" How God's Prompting System helps guide us to the road
that leads to Christ M thru F, 7 pm to 8 pm PST. Everyone really needs
to tune in, I have always enjoyed sonnys' broadcast. He has been on
the Christian Car Guy's show in NC many times. If you have time? Tune
in and give them a call when they are on the air. http://www.recalculatingroute.net
Thank you Dr. Sonny for the work you do! CH Gibson
Chaplain
James Manning reporting in from Georgia: I greet everyone
in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. My fellow Chaplains
at this time I am working on setting up the Georgia division "CFMI
Georgia". I had the opportunity to meet with Chaplain Henry Curtis
in Buffalo NY, last month who is assisting me with setting up the
Georgia Division. Chaplain Curtis was very helpful and informative.
We will be meeting again sometime in August of this year. I would
like to make contact with the CFMI members in Georgia and introduce
myself. God bless and may the grace of God shine upon all of you all.
Chaplain Manning has retired Home Land Security and accepted the position
of CMDR of the state of Georgia. CH Manning has been with CFMI and
will make a wonderful state CMDR. Any CFMI member's who would like
to contact CMDR Manning may do so by email
Note: I
would like to thank brother Manning for his many years of faithful
service as a member of CFMI. James was of one of our first members
many years ago and never gave up on us. Bless you and your dear wife.
CH Donald Gibson
Chaplain Ernest Kudron from Colorado reporting in: I have
begun my training to be on the United Airlines Emergency Response
/ Special Assistance "GO TEAM". I will be certified on July
20 to respond to Aviation or Natural disasters affecting United. This
is a natural outgrowth of my ministry to the employees of DIA and
United that I have been involved in for the last 7 years as an Industrial
Chaplain. Please Pray for the people all around our nation who are
impacted by the Fires and Storms attacking our nation. Thanks. Your
Brother in Christ, Ernest Kudron. Thank
you for your report and service. Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
to Chaplain John Evers from North Carolina: Chaplain Evers
has completed the the courses of instruction in Victim Assistance
Training, Identity Theft Victims Assistance. This training is wonderful
when it comes to senior citizens and unwed mothers who have a lack
of knowledge regarding both subjects. Chaplains who have this kind
of knowledge can be a wonderful bless to those who have been taken
advantage. Chaplaincy goes way beyond the understanding of most people
and the church. Thank you for your time, Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Bob Bowen reporting in from New England: It has been awhile
since I made a field report. I felt since Hurricane Irene hit New
England how badly needed a Disaster Response is through CFMI.I highly
recommend taking any training necessary to become certified. I am
a firefighter in NH and had been ivolved in Vermont. Much needed to
be done and alot of people helping had no training but still such
a blessing. We need a call team in New England through CFMI. It is
a vision I have. Things are ever changing here in New England. An
encouragement to CFMI..whatever changes in training are coming..flow
with them. The Lord will surely bring them to pass. Thank
you for your report and service to the ministry. Chaplain Gibson
Memo
to all members regarding
Professional Liability Insurance for Pastoral Counseling:
Chaplains and ministers who do pastoral counseling may want to
consider getting professional liability insurance for pastoral counseling.
CFMI does not offer this coverage as some other ministries. Reason
being they charge twice what the insurance cost so they can make money
off the policys as well as their membership cost. You can apply for
coverage yourself and get good coverage and save a lot of money. We
have posted the contact information of a company one of our members
has recommended. He hasd been with them for some time and pleased
with their service. We are providing this information by request from
some of our members who feel they need liability insurance for pastoral
counseling.
to visit the member's area for more information, you will have to
log into the member's secure area. Thank you for your time, Chaplain
Gibson
Memo
to all members from the home office: Please
be sure to check the 2012 conference web page. It has been updated
and a few mistakes have been corrected, there have also been a few
changes regarding speakers. To visit conference page
Thank you for your time, Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
James Nolin reporting in from Florida: On June the 6th. 2012
,,after serving over 30 years as a law enforcement officer myself
before being called into the ministry, I know all to well the dangers
both physical and spiritual that law enforcement officers face every
day. I know that true officer survival is more than just a gun and
bullet proof vest, it is having a personal relationship with Jesus
Christ as your Lord and Savior. I feel God has called me to bring
and to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with all those in law enforcement
and their families. To carry out this calling, I started a ministry
called Brotherhood of Christian Law Enforcement Officers we provide
Free bibles to Law Enforcement Officers A Memorial bible to the family
of any officer that is killed in the line of duty A 24 hour,7 days
a week, on-line bible study for officers A web site where officers
can pose a biblical question, share a praise report ,or make a prayer
request. Encouragement, comfort and aid to Law Enforcement Officers
or their families in times of crisis. Speaking engagements anywhere
the perspectives and expertise of Christian Law Enforcement Officers
could be of benefit. Within the first five months of 2012 the Lord
has given me the opportunity and honor to have officiated 3 wedding
ceremonies and two funerals for Law Enforcement Officers and their
families. We have provided over 125 free bibles to officers which
made a request through our web site at www.bcleo.org , Also within
this first five months of 2012 we have had 42 officers killed in the
line of duty or to die from a duty related injury and we have provided
a memorial bible to every family of each fallen officers. We also
provided a memorial bible to each of the fallen officers. Thank
you for your report and service to the ministry. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Robert Bowen from New Hampshire reporting in: It has been
awhile since I made a field report. A response trailor using a light
weight sport utility trailor is being prepared here in Swanzey NH.
It is exciting to hear of the progress going on with the Disaster
Response certification and will be looking forward to news from the
annual meeting in October. Just a word of encouragement to everyone,
grab any training you can. Sooner or later, it will be used. Years
ago in my high school years, I was terrible in math due to being a
bore. I loved artistry. Both teachers got together and agreed to put
me into drafting. I did well in that but why? Years later after getting
involved in the fire services, I used it in reading blue prints at
fire scenes. No training is insignificant. It is a gift. Take it for
what it is. Thank you for your report and service to the ministry.
Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Diane Peterson from Alaska reporting in: I have been blessed
to be a part of Alaska Police and Fire Chaplains Ministry . Serving
our law enforcement and firefighters is very rewarding. I also had
the opportunity to go on a missions trip to Panama San Blas Islands.
What an amazing experience of Gods love. I am honored to be asked
to sit and pray with a dying elder. The spirit of God is everywhere.
Gods love is universal and I am blessed to continue on the Spiritual
path of Chaplaincy. Thank you CFMI for assisting us all in our ministries.
Peace and Blessings Chaplain Diane Peterson. Thank you for your
report and service to the ministry. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Chris Rouse from Pennsylvania reporting in: I am continuing
to serve as chaplain at the 6th District. I have expanded the ministry
by participating in role calls and ride a longs with the last out
squad from 10:30 PM to 2:00 AM. This is a unique since most "last
out" sqauds throughout the city do not receive consistant attention
from chaplains because of the late hours. I just thank God for opening
the doors and giving me access to this squad. I am also working on
restarting our home fellowship and will keep you posted. Please keep
us in prayer -- we have been going through some terrible trials but
we know His grace is sufficient! Blessings Chaplain Chris Rouse. Thank
you for your report and service to the ministry. Chaplain Gibson
Memo
to all members from
the home office: Due to the every changing requirement for
disater & emergency response chaplain's idenification we are working
on going to magnetic stripe ID Cards for certified disaster and emergency
response chaplains. These cards will have the chaplain's training
and certification encoded on the magnetic stripe on their ID cards.
Members who are certified diaster and emergency response chaplains
are the only members that will be able to receive these cards. The
qualifications to receive certification as a disaster or emergency
response chaplains will be set by the leadereship of Chaplain Fellowship
Ministries in October at the 2012 conference this year. These cards
will not be ready for issue until after that meeting in October. Those
who may be interest in receiving certification and one of these ID
cards can start their training at the following training site
This will not be the only training required, it will help get those
interested started towards certification. Thank you! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Thelma Gonzales-Ortega from Texas reporting in: Dear Chaplain
Donald Gibson I'd like to express my most sincere gratitude for the
entire CFMI organization. Last October, I was able to attend the last
day of the conference where I met you along with many of the other
active chaplains. Since my ordination in Dec 2010 and after thorough
studies of the material provided by Community Chaplains of America,
I've gone out into the field providing moral and spiritual support
to people in hospitals and those that mourn after a loss of a loved
one. My heart goes out to those especially who mourn and feel comfortless.
I've been there and understand the emotional pain when one is grieving.
That is a time when people are more receptive to open their hearts
and an excellent opportunity to witness the love and compassion of
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Some of the people that I visited
while they were in the hospital later went to be with the Lord. Some
recovered and are doing well! Praise the Lord! Brother Gibson, I am
also employed by 2 agencies in home health care. There are 2 clients
that I serve as their primary home care attendant (caregiver). One
is an elderly gentleman who is 86 years Of age. The other is a disabled
woman who is 49 years Of age. These 2 clients/patients count on me
to assist them with their daily chores and with their physical needs
as their are experiencing difficulty with mobility. Between the two,
I work 45 hours a week. These patients do not drive and I take them
to their Doctor visits and pick up their meds. Bro. Gibson, I see
a lot of need where the elderly and disabled are concerned. There
are many senior citizens that are shut in. Some of them have been
abandoned by their own family members. Some don't want to inconvenience
anyone and try to handle life as best as they able. Bro. Gibson, I'd
like to thank you once again for your prayerful support. I am forever
thankful for being a member of CFMI as a chaplain. I will stay in
contact with you by this means or by phone. Sincerely, CH Thelma Gonzales-Ortega
Thank you for your report and your service. Working with senior
citizens and young people has always been my passion in ministry.
My heart breaks for those who have been deserted or left alone to
die in nursing homes. It seems like seniors and young people now days
have a lot in common. They get dumped and left behind because no one
wants to deal with them or the problems they have , it is heart breaking,
very sad! Chaplain Gibson
MEMBER'S
MEMO: Greeting everyone. Each year Chaplain Fellowship has
been able to send handicapped and terminally Ill children to the circus.
This year we were blessed to be able to send 25 children, their tickets
include all the booths such as the face painting booth. This is made
possible through donations made by our members and member partners.
This is just one of the activities Chaplain Fellowship support every
year. We keeps this private except for sharing with our members. Next
year we are going to work on sending a 100 children to the circus.
Thank you for your kind support that makes these activities possible
each year. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain Walter Campbell from Georgia reporting in:
Still in service to God and to country. This month God has opened
a new door for me to serve weekly on a military installation sharing
the gospel to members of the armed forces. It has been very rewarding
to me to be able to see so many servicemen and women accept the gift
that has been offered to them by the grace of God. I pray to be in
a position that I will able attend this years conference in Texas.GTG. Chaplain Walter Campbell. Thank you for your report and service to the ministry. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Edward R Untalan reporting in from California: I just wanted
to share that God opens the door of opportunity, it's His timing not
ours and He will definitely provide divine appointments. I was appointed
in Nov 2011, and was struggling with not being able to enter in facilities
to minister and share the gospel. I was able to connect with another
chaplain in the prison and juvenile ministry in our early morning
prayer, and that was the connection God had set in place. I was recently
cleared to become a chaplain with the San Mateo County Juvenile facility
in California. In-conjuction with that, God is working in a mighty
way and we are putting together another chaplain team for the Juvenile
facility and working on launching a Elderly and Senior Care Ministry
with our church. I wanted to encourage all, the bible tells us to
continue to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and not lean
to our own understanding" Prov 3:5. The Lord knows His servants
heart and will make a way. Thank you for allowing me to share. God
Bless Chaplain Edward R Untalan , Thank you for your service and
report! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Leigh Anne Lowden from PA reporting in: Chaplain Gibson &
the staff at CFMI, I have been so blessed by becoming a part of this
blessed group of chaplains. I minister to our aging friends and the
many resources offered through CFMI have been so valuable to my ministry.
I am honored and humbled by God's grace. Encouraging and sharing the
love of Jesus with assisted living residents, alzheimer patients and
hospice patients is where God has called me to serve. I gain my strength
from His overflowing abundance of grace. Thank you Chaplain Gibson!
Senior Chaplain Leigh Anne Lowden. Thank you for your report and
your service in the Lords' ministry. Chaplian Gibson
MEMBER'S
MEMO:
Chaplain Michael Merriweather will be working with troubled
youth in the juvenile system in California. Chaplain Michael Merriweather
is a Former NFL All Pro Linebacker. Mike sent in a few autographed
photo we want to share with our members. Mike was a third round draft
choice by the Steelers in 1982. He got into nine games in his rookie
year, then earned the starting job in 1983. He had three interceptions
that year, and scored the first touchdown of his career. Mike made
his first All-Pro team in 1984, when he recorded a career high 15
sacks. He returned to the All-Pro team the following year when he
recorded four sacks and took an interception 35 yards for a touchdown.
Mike made his final All-Pro team in 1986, when he had six sacks and
two interceptions. He ended up with the Minnesota Vikings in 1989.
In 1990, he recorded the only safety of his career, and scored a touchdown
off of an interception. He matched his career high of three interceptions
the following year, and took one for a career long 73 yards. He also
took a fumble recovery for a touchdown. Mike then scored the last
touchdown of his career in 1991, when he took his only interception
for 22 yards. Mike played with the New York Jets and Green Bay Packers
in 1993, he retired after that season. Great Steelers linebackers
like John Reger, Levon Kirkland, and Chad Brown deserve mention, but
I chose Mike Merriweather for his 31 sacks, 11 interceptions, and
two touchdowns in his six seasons with Pittsburgh.
to see photo 1.
to see photo 2. Thank you Chaplain Merriweather for the Photos,
Chaplain Gibson
Education
Department Update and Ministry Appointment: Dr. Dorothy
King has been appointed as the Vice President of degree programs for
Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International inc. Dr.
King is the Founder and Chancellor of Bethel Bible College and Seminary,
Central Christian University of Jonesboro and President of St Johns
Theological Center Canada. Dr. King is a Commissioner of Transworld
Accrediting Commission Reviewing Board of Commissioners and Directors.
We believe this will be a very blessed relationship formed between
Chaplain Fellowship Ministries and Bethel Bible College and Seminary
for
the benefit of our members and the ministry. Dr. Dorothy King and
her husband Dr. Savoil King were two of the first members of CFMI
many years ago. You can visit Bethel Bible College and Seminary's
web site
Thank you for your time! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Victor Brown reporting in from Louisiana: Chaplain Gibson,
Just a note to say thank you again for your allowing me to serve as
a chaplain. Since 2003, the Chaplaincy Ministry has afforded me some
good opportunities. I have ministered in doing weddings, funerals,
graveside services, family hours, communions, prayer meetings and
lots of teaching assignments. Recently, I was asked to serve as Dean
of Training for a new School of Ministry here in the Shreveport area.
Serving at the funeral home has also been an experience and a blessing.
Thanks so much and God bless you and family. Chaplain Victor BrownShreveport, LA. Thank you for your report Chaplain Brown. Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Terry Wildman reporting in from Missouri: Disaster
in the heartland. As you all may know tornados have been hitting the
Midwest hard,we need to all pray for these people that have been hit
and lost loved ones and some every material thing they own,also pray
for the volunteers,first responders,and chaplains. I have been asked
to deploy to Harrisburg Illinois on Friday morning and stay until
Tuesday. I have been in the small towns in Missouri that have gotten
hit this past week,also the town of salyersville KY has been hit hard
and they are not getting the help that the bigger areas such as Harrisburg
are getting so they are needing volunteers too. I will be sending
in a full report next week sometime after I get back. I can't emphasize
enough how important it is for chaplains to get the disaster response
training. Chief Chaplain Terry Wildman. Thank you brother for your
service and the update! Chaplain Gibson
DISASTER
RESPONSE: Please be very careful, Chaplain Terry Wildman has
been in the field since day one. He went out in a area that was hard
to reach to warn other responders that another tornado was spotted
in the area when a tornado came out of nowhere. He made it to a shelter
just in time! Everyone responding please be careful and keep your
eyes open at all times, always expect the unexpected when working
in tornado stricken areas. We want to thank Chaplain Wildman for keeping
us updated. Chaplain Gibson
MEMBER'S
MINISTRY UPDATE: Greetings everyone, It has come to our attention
that some of our members have had trouble find the ministry Items
we offer that are necessary in the performance of their duties as
chaplains and ministers. Some of these item are but not limited to,
badges, patches, dash cards, pocket guides and training courses. We
have updated the member's area with Catalogs complete with order form
and credit card authorization form that can be downloaded for the
following items. Training pocket guides "New- Just added"
& Training course. Member's ministry supplies, Member's clip on
card, Member's document and ID card replacement order form. We will
be adding the bible course catalog this week. We have also posted
a picture of the official CFM-Uniform, the links below will take you
to the members area where all the links are listed.
Bless everyone as you go about doing the Lords' work! Chaplain
Gibson
Chaplain
Dan Cotto reporting in from Las Vegas: I would like to share
my blessings this New Year with my fellow chaplains. In March I'll
incorporated Cotto Orphanage & Humanitarian Rescue Mission in
Las Vegas, Nevada with Gods' blessings. If Gods willing by end this
year I'll be done with my full time employment that has taken most
of my life. I'll be free by the end of Nov. 2012, to started my Rescue
Mission in USA following; In India this August, November in the Philippine's
and, December in Africa. I'll keep you up dated. Thank You for always
being there for my Rescue mission ! God Bless You ! Chaplain Dan F.
Cotto Sr. Thank you for your report! Chaplain Gibson
Chaplain
Louise Wimbish Jennings from Virginia:
I'm not quite as active in ministry as my husband has lung cancer
and there are days that I can't leave him alone. I'm still Chaplain
for the women in Rockingham Harrisonburg Regional Jail and am on call
at Middle River Regional Jail, but have someone else doing the Bible
Study there that I was doing. We have just added some more members
to our Board of Directors and are doing a little reorganizing to take
some of the responsibility off of me at this time. It is wonderful
how the volunteers have stepped up and helped. I received the Harry
Denman Evangelistic Award at the Virginia Annual Conference United
Methodist Church in June. It was quite a surprise. There were over
3,000 people in the auditorium when it was presented to me. It was
awesome. Spreading God's love is what it's all about. Pray this new
year will be a great year for you and Tina and Chaplains Fellowship.
Chaplain Jennings is an elder of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries with
ten years as a member. Chaplain Jennings is a wonderful blessing to
all those she touches. Chaplain Jennings has help countless inmates
over the years start new lives when they come out of prison, and helped
them stay out of prison. Please keep Louise and her husband Shel in
your prayers. Thank you! Chaplain Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS:
Posted by requested of CH Bruce Francis in Oklahoma. Congratulation
to Jennifer Tevis on the birth of her son Dominic Jett Tevis,
5lb, 13oz who arrived on Wednesday, February 15, 2012. Jennifer is
one of the founding members of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries of Oklahoma.
God Bless Chaplain Bruce Francis
CONGRATULATIONS: Chaplain Dave Fair of Brownwood was
recently nominated by local officials to receive the Citizen Service
Before Self Honor, a national honor for America’s “unsung
heroes.” Every day in this country, ordinary Americans become
extraordinary. It can happen in an instance of bravery or through
a lifetime of placing others before themselves. These acts of courage
and selflessness would inspire us all, if only we knew about them.
Now, the time has come to stand up and celebrate, in our cities and
in our towns, the selfless heroism that symbolizes the American spirit.
Chaplain Dave Fair is a former Board Member of the International Conference
of Police Chaplains, where he served as Chair of the Education Committee.
He is a Senior Chaplain for the Texas Department of Public Safety
and the Brown County (TX) Sheriff's Department where is also serves
as a reserve deputy. He is Chaplain Emeritus of the Brownwood (TX)
Police Department. Fair is a member of the Board of Scientific and
Professional Advisors of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic
Stress. He has written numerous articles on Chaplaincy and Traumatic
Stress. He has had touching articles published by Officer.com and
quoted in our local newspaper too many times to mention. Chaplain
Fair is President of the American Association of Police Officers,
Chaplain Fair is a a
licensed peace officer who holds
a Ph.D. in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology from Bethel Bible College
and Seminary and a doctorate in Clinical Christian Counseling from
Central Christian University. Dr. Fair is a member of the Curriculum
Committee of the American Board of Certification in Homeland Security,
as well as a member of the Commission on Forensic Education. Fair
serves as Chaplain Coordinator for the Texas State Guard, has been
assigned to the 111 EN BN, the JIATF-T, and has been deployed to over
a half dozen hurricanes. Also first responder Dave Fair went to Ground
Zero days after the attacks to support the recovery effort. Dave has
served his city over 24 years as a longtime Brownwood city councilman.
He serves as a part of the local AT Planning Team. Fair also serves
at the volunteer team leader for our Community Emergency Response
Team (CERT) for Brown County. Local representatives, Dave Fair and
Sheila Evans, along with Brownwood area schools spearheaded a fundraiser
for The Hope for Haiti Medical Mission Team. Chaplain Fair has been
a member of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries for over ten years and
hold the position of Commander of Law Enforcement Chaplaincy. Congratulations
brother! CH Gibson!
Chaplain
Steve Timmons from New Mexico: First and foremost, let me
tell you that my wife and I lifted special prayers this morning for
you and all of our CFMI brothers and sisters. May our Father richly
bless our work on His behalf in this new year! My wife (a very precious
woman and blessing in my life) wants to join me in my chaplain ministry.
While my crisis-focused work will of course continue, she and I are
also feeling led to bring a ministry of presence and counseling to
couples. I will ask for your prayers as we move in that direction.
We spent this morning going through the CFMI website together, and
she would like to make application to be a Basic Chaplain. We will
get her application together and off to you in the mail, and she's
excited to take this new direction in her service to her Lord Jesus.
I just wanted to give you a heads up that as a Master Chaplain...not
as a husband...I could not give a person a higher recommendation toward
the ministry. She brings a servant's heart and passion for her Lord
to this world each and every day. She will make a wonderful Chaplain.
Thank you brother, CH Gibson
Chaplain
Ken Tamplin reporting in from California:
Just wanted to give you a praise report about a few things going on
in the ministry. We (our family) worked very hard recruiting about
80 unsaved kids from the costa mesa newport beach area to get involved
in the "Young Life Program." Our 501c3 sponsored about 30
of those kids to also attend the young life camp. Over 25 of them
came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ (several of these kids
were staunch atheists and many angry at God). They are now attending
various youthgroups in the area and are very active in the Young Life
ministry. God Is GOOD! (it's now about follow up). We are also continuing
to support our orphanage in Africa which has been a blessing. Our
kids have decided to become sr. leaders within both Young Life and
now College Life and have developed a program out here in this past
6 months that has gone from 5 attending kids in each group to over
30 kids in each group. We plan on trying to get to Europe's Young
Life groups this summer to get involved with Young Life International
as well. I will forward you a recent e-mail from a boarding school
in Africa we support as well. IHS Chaplain Ken Tamplin. Thank you
for your report! CH Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS:
Chaplain
Mindy Vacek of Texas id the president and founder of Dream Builder
Ministries. Dream Builder Ministries has become an official affiliate
subordinate ministry of Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International
Inc. One of Dream Builder's main missions is to provide affordable,
quality housing for the homeless, displaced, disabled and/or low income
residents of the community. Chaplain Vacek and Dream Builder Ministries
will be working with the US Government housing and Unban development
programs. Dream Boulder's goals for 2012 is to build at least 15 homes
to accommodate people in crisis. We are happy to have Chaplain Vacek
and Dream Builder Ministries as an affiliate ministry in the mission
field working hard to make a difference for those in crisis. We pray
the Lord will bless them in mighty ways. CH Gibson
Chaplain
Walter Campbell reporting in from Georgia: 2011 was a year
of many blessings. Even with health issues I am still able to serve.
Still primarily serving in nursing homes I have been called to perform
many duties as chaplain in the facilities. Serving as a resident chaplain
in 4 nursing homes, working with hospice and a domestic violence and
rape crisis center. I was interviewed and approved to serve as a motor
sports chaplain serving organizations like NASCAR, INDY and many other
motor sports arena's. I thank God for opening the doors that I might
be in His service. Thank you for your hard work and dedication,
CH Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS:
To the following members. The following Chaplain
are the first to be certified in the new disaster Response Certification
program. 1. Chaplain Henry
Curtis - New York 2. Chaplain
Terry Wildman - Missouri 3.
Chaplain James Moore - Texas 4.
Chaplain Robert Schmidt - California 5.
Chaplain William Rigg - South Carolina.
6. Chaplain Danny Battle - California. The purpose
of this training and certification is to prepair chaplains to assist
their own communities in time of crisis or diaster. Every day volunteers
respond to numerous disasters or emergencies in their communities.
Most often, these incidents are managed effectively at the local level.
However, there are some incidents that may require a collaborative
approach that includes personnel from: 1. Multiple jurisdictions,
2. A combination of specialties or disciplines, 3. Several
levels of government, 4. Non-governmental organizations, and
5. The private sector. This certification is only offered to
CFMI members in good standing. If you are a member who are interested
in this certification for full details. .
All requirements must be meet before certification will be issued.
Congratulations to the chaplains who have completed all the courses
and became certified in Disaster Response. Great job! Thank you CH
Gibson
Chaplain
Terry Wildman report in from Missouri: the disaster program
is moving forward. in the past week i have had meetings with the red
cross and c.e.r.t. also have meeting scheduled with local fire dept.
and emergency managers. planning on having chaplains conference in
june to introduce people to the many different programs available
for chaplains it will be a one day event,in the past few months i
personally have been hit very hard with sickness,death of my sister,stroke
with a fellow chaplain and car accidents of a friend and a stranger
that her husband passed away in front of a friends son that he had
come to me with questions. I want to tell you how important the classes
offered thru chaplain fellowship ministries are that I have taken,
they have helped me tremendously with dealing with these situations.
I want to thank Chappy,Tina and the cfmi staff for offering these
greatly appreciated and much informative courses. I encourage all
chaplains to partake in these classes they will be of great help to
you in your ministries. Remember it is not about the talk but about
the walk, have a great day! chief
chaplain terry wildman. Thank you for your hard work and dedication
- CH Gibson
NOTICE
TO CFMI MEMBERS - Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) training:
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people
about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area
and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety,
light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises,
CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace
following an event when professional responders are not immediately
available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency
response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness
projects in their community.
to get involved and get your free CERT's training! Thank
you CH Gibson
NOTICE
TO CFMI MEMBERS - WEDDING MANUAL: This manual is in word format
and includes 19 wedding ceremonies that can be customized as needed.
It also includes a reservation form and wedding policy. Members
can download this manual in the member's protected area. If you have
misplaced your password contact the home office with your name and
ID Card number. The password will be sent to you by e-mail.
To contact the home office. Thank you CH Gibson
NOTICE
TO CFMI MEMBERS - SUICIDE PREVENTION MANUAL: This manual was
a labor of love, determination, dedication and commitment by several
members of the San Jose Fire Department in California. Sadly enough,
it was written after several years of sadness and grief experienced
by the families, extended families and the fire family of San Jose
Fire Department Firefighters. This manual is in memory of several
beloved San Jose Firefighters. We miss them each and every day. The
authors hope to provide a resource for firefighters should they find
themselves, their coworkers, their families or someone they know in
need. Their hope is to open our eyes to a word that is seldom spoken
and difficult to talk about, but one that touches the hearts and minds
of the survivors of suicide forever. Download the Suicide Prevention
Manual. Members can download this manual in the member's protected
area. If you have misplaced your password contact the home office
with your name and ID Card number. The password will be sent to you
by e-mail.
To contact the home office. Thank you CH Gibson
Chaplain
James Manning from Georgia reporting in: Chaplain
Manning is in the process of getting the Georgia Chapter up and running.
Hopefully and prayerfully Georgia Chapter will function within the
next ninety days or less. I need all of your prayers. I maybe contacting
some of you for some assistance. Chaplain Manning was appointed as
the Commander for the state of
Georgia at the 2011 conference. Bless you Commander Manning, CH
Gibson
Department
of Homeland Security: We have several members who are working
in ministry to help cut down on human trafficking. Human trafficking
is a hidden crime, and the first step to combating it is identifying
victims so they can be rescued and their perpetrators brought to justice.
To help raise awareness about the issue and indicators of human trafficking,
the DHS Blue Campaign has collaborated with a number of stake holder
groups to conduct outreach and develop training materials available
at http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/human-trafficking-awareness-training.shtm.
More information can be found at the following Homeland Security web
site. http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/humantrafficking.shtm
This training is good for chaplains, you will learn a lot about human
trafficking which is a lot bigger problem than most would admit. The
training is free folks so why not take advantage of it. Good
chaplains work in many different areas. Human trafficking is destroying
countless young people and their families. Get involved and help make
a difference. Thank you CH Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS
Master Chaplain Scott Willis: Master Chaplain Scott
Willis has been commissioned as a Major in the Texas State Guard.
We now have 4 members in the Texas State Guard. (LTC) David Fair:
TXSG, NGTX, HHSC, 111 EN BN , (LTC) Larry Todd, TXSG Army Component,
(COL) Thomas Mohler TXSG Air Force Component and (MAJ) Scott Willis
, TXSG Army Component. We had several of our military Chaplains resign
their commission in 2011, we now have 4remaining military Chaplains.
(CPT) Carl Hagwood VaARNG Virgina National Guard Chaplain, (CPT) Franklin
Caldwell Army Active Duty Battalion Chaplain 1192nd DDSB, (LTJG) Allan
Bushnell III active duty Chaplain and (1LT) Nathan Graeser Army National
Guard 144th Field Artillery. As many of you know CFMI stopped endorsing
Military Chaplains about a year ago. We have started recruiting again
depending on the need for Chaplains in the military. We will continue
our relationship as partners with friends at Chaplaincy Full Gospel
Churches for our member's
endorsements for our military and VA chaplains. Our Texas State
Guard Chaplains will continue to be endorse under CFMI. Thank
you CH Gibson
Citizen
Corps Partners and Affiliates: An End of Year Thank You for
Serving Your Communities. In 2011, America logged the highest number
of major disaster declarations since the inception of Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) reporting in the 1950s. Events this year
included Hurricane Irene which impacted 14 states, fires in the Southwest,
the earthquake on the East Coast, flooding in North Dakota, and the
devastating tornadoes that hit the Midwest and South. Americans in
nearly every state and territory were affected by some type of disaster,
and many are still in the recovery process. That is why we here at
FEMA’s Individual and Community Preparedness Division would like
to take this opportunity to THANK YOU for serving your communities
and building resiliency in them to these disasters and the ones yet
to come. Without your tireless work, much of which is voluntary, disaster
survivors wouldn’t be as equipped to recover. Our neighbors might
not be as informed and prepared. And we as a nation certainly wouldn’t
be as ready to respond to whatever comes our way. I applaud you for
your amazing work and I encourage you to continue to help each other.
Help your friends and neighbors “Resolve to be Ready” in
2012.” Visit www.ready.gov resolve
for more information designed to encourage citizens to make disaster
preparedness a New Year’s resolution. Spread the word to local
businesses, schools, faith-based, and other community organizations.
And by all means, please lean on us for support. Visit www.citizencorps.gov
for a variety of resources geared toward supporting and coordinating
volunteer activities. If there is something you need but don’t
see it, please let us know and we will locate it for you. We are here
to serve you, just as you serve your communities. Thank you again
for your dedication to a prepared and resilient country. We wish you
a safe and healthy 2012! Paulette Aniskoff, Director, Individual and
Community Preparedness, The National Office of Citizen Corps, FEMA
Individual and Communtiy Preparedness Division. Thank
you CH Gibson
Master
Chaplain Lindsie "Roc" Whitted reporting from Philadelphia,
Pa: . Overview of activities. Philadelphia Police Department
Chaplain assigned to the 12th Police District. Attending and addressing
48 different roll calls during the hours of 10:00p to 12:00 am shifts.
Participate in monthly district chaplain's meeting and advisor board
activities throughout the year. Conducted at roo calls various subjects
such as Managing Stress on and off duty, Holiday grief, Suicide Intervention,
PTSD, Depression, and Compassion Fatigue. Available at 12th Police
District for prayer and individual consultation. Spiritual Care Chaplain
for the American Red Cross of the Southeastern PA Chapter. Response
to Fires and other disaster as requested. Participate in on going
redness training such as CPR/AED/First AID, Foundation of Disaster
for mental health, psychological first Aid.Contact Crisis/Suicide
help line- Perform volunteer service on phone lines for crisis/suicide
at about (18) hours a month. Honor for 21 years of volunteer services
on line. Participate in, in service training. Crisis Intervention
Team Instructor-Trained (480) Police officers,correction officers
and other police departments in De-Escalation techniques, the art
of active listening, suicide awareness and intervention and PTSD.
Currently part of sub-committee of the Philadelphia Task force that
meets monthly to discuss training/policies for Police Officers interaction
with returning veterans with possible PTSD. Attending the following
training: Applied suicide Intervention skill training Feb. 9-10. AACC
Leadership Coaching Light University March 25-30. Building Law Enforcement
Capacity to serve Immigrant victims Feb.24. CMI Education Institute
Suicide and self mutilation May 15 coping with grief June 10. AACC
Financial coaching (Light University) Sept. 15-20. This concludes
my activitie report for the year 2011 from January to December. Respectfully
submitted. In His service. Master chaplain Lindsie "Roc' Whitted.
Thank
you for your hard work and dedication - Ch Gibson
Chaplain
J.D. Nolin from Florida reporting in: After serving over 30
years as a law enforcement officer myself before being called into
the ministry, I know all to well the dangers both physical and spiritual
that law enforcement officers face every day. I know that true officer
survival is more than just a gun and bullet proof vest, it is having
a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.
I feel God has called me to bring and to share the Gospel of Jesus
Christ with all those in law enforcement and their families. To carry
out this calling we provide Free bibles to Law Enforcement Officers
A Memorial bible to the family of any officer that is killed in the
line of duty. A 24 hour,7 days a week, on-line bible study for officers.
A web site where officers can pose a biblical question, share a praise
report ,or make a prayer request. Encouragement, comfort and aid to
Law Enforcement Officers or their families in times of crisis. Speaking
engagements anywhere the perspectives and expertise of Christian Law
Enforcement Officers could be of benefit. This year we have provided
over 400 free bibles to officers which made a request through our
web site at www.bcleo.org. Also this year we have had 158 officers
killed in the line of duty or to die from a duty related injury and
we have provided a memorial bible to every family of each fallen officers.
We also provided a memorial bible to each of the fallen officer’s
agency chief administer ie: Chief , Sheriff, or Superintendent. We
have had many officers take the opportunity to use our on-line bible
study. We have also had numerous prayer requests, and praise reports.
I also had hospital visitation with several local officers and their
family members, within these visitations, I had the honor of leading
many officers through the plan of salvation, many of these officers
excepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior !! This year, I have
had the opportunity to speak at five churches and to share what great
things God is doing within the law enforcement community. I also had
the honor of officiating four weddings for Christian law enforcement
officers. I want to say thank all my brothers and sisters in Chaplain
Fellowship Ministries for everything you do, for all you have done
and for all I know you will do in his service. May God Bless you all,
and kept you safe. Chaplain J.D.Nolin. Thank you for your hard
work and dedication - CH Gibson.
Chaplain
Mike Bowen reporting in from Maryland: I became a Fire Department
Chaplain. I have been doing a lot of training including CISM Training
and Basic Chaplaincy with the Federation of Fire Chaplains. In addition,
I was recently sworn in as the Assistant Chaplain for the Southern
Maryland Volunteer Firemen's Association covering Calvert County and
assisting with St. Mary's and Charles Counties. I have also been added
as the secondary Chaplain for the Maryland State L.A.S.T. Team.(Local
Assistance State Team) serving all of the State of Maryland in the
event of a LODD. I can't thank you and CFMI enough for helping me
move forward as I have. God has blessed me in ways I will never be
able to thank him enough for. As I continue my work, I will be taking
more training to take me to the highest level that God will allow
me to go to. I will keep you up to date as things go.May God Bless
you and keep you in His care and may you and your family, friends
and other members of the CFMI have a Blessed Merry Christmas and a
very Happy New Year! Chaplain Mike Bowen Prince Frederick VFD. Thank
you for your hard work and dedication - CH Gibson
Firefighter
and Police theme songs: Hello, my name is George Dare and
I am the creator of both the Firefighter and Police theme songs. These
songs are already used by many Firefighter and Police Associations,
at Graduations, Award Banquets, Retirement Parties and Last Call/Fallen
Officer services. All I am hoping to do is share the song with Chaplains
who might not be aware of this and might like to consider using them
at funerals. They can be listened to and also downloaded for free
at Fire
Fighter Theme Song and the Police
Theme Song. Please feel free to share the link to these songs
with your fellow Chaplains. We hope you enjoy both these Songs!
CH Gibson
CONGRATULATIONS:
Chaplain
Dave Fair has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel peer directive and
orders of the Commanding General Texas State Guard. A formal ceremony
was held at Camp Mabry. He was also cited for taking over the chaplaincy
as Coordinating Chaplain in light of the State Chaplain's retirement.
CH Gibson
To
all CFMI supporters and partners - Thank you!:
Chaplain Fellowship has a program that makes sure each year a poor
child has a very Merry Christmas. This year due to the economy we
have decided to use these funds to help feed poor families who will
not have food during Christmas. Thanks to our members who are loyal
ministry supporters and by the Grace of our Lord we will be able to
help around 16 families this Christmas. We look forward to the day
which will come when we will be able to feed hundreds of families
every Christmas. We know the Lord will bless everyone who helps make
this possible. bless everyone! CH Gibson and the CFMI Staff
Chaplain
Ken Tamplin Director of music ministry and Chaplain Joshua Hallas
from California: If you have not seen Chaplain Ken Tamplin's
testimony page yet please check it out.
You can also see one of his music videos .
Also check out Chaplain Joshua Hallas
Chaplain Joshua Hallas may be appearing on America has talent in the
near future, we will let everyone know as soon as the date is set.
These chaplains are wonderful men who are on fire for the Lord, they
are our first two music Chaplains. Thank
you, CH Gibson
FROM THE
STAFF OF CHAPLAIN FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES: Bruce,
Don, Tina, Shannon, Todd, Andrew "The Future Pres" Tracy
and Shawn. From
all our families to all of your have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.
As we pause to thank Him for the blessings He has bestowed upon us,
we must also give Him thanks for the lessons we have learned through
the difficult times He has brought us through. Please remember to
keep our troops and their families in prayers. Bless you, and thank
you CH Gibson.
Chaplain
Ed Untalan reporting in from California: Just got back from
from Hungary and Slovakia, mission trip ministering to the Gypsy camps
and several churches in the region. God is really doing an amazing
work and testimony upon testimony of salvation, healing , and sharing
prophetic word. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to serve
the Lord in this compacity. Thank you for report! CH Gibson
CFMI
MEMBERS GET AWAY: Get
away from it all! If you are looking to get away for a week end or
longer look into the Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast in Brownwood
Texas. Chaplain Don Morelock and his wife Debbie own the Star of Texas
Bed & Breakfast. Chaplain Morelock and his wife Debbie is offering
CFMI members discounts on their stay at the Star of Texas during certain
times of the year.
to visit their web site and for contact information. If you decide
to visit the Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast let Chaplain Morelock
know you are a member and give him your ID number as verification
to receive your discount. Tina and I are looking forward to spending
a week or more at the Star of Texas next year. This
information is provided strictly for members who would enjoy spending
some quality time away from all the hassles of daily life. We would
like to thank Don & Debbie Morelock for their kind offer to CFMI
members. From the leadership, Staff and all CFMI members, Thank you
Don & Debbie, CH Gibson
Chaplain
Skip Straus from Texas: Texas EMS Conference (Nov 20th-23rd)
attendees! Dr. Steve Arze and Chaplain Skip Straus of Emergency Ministries
will be co-lecturing in Austin at the Texas EMS Conference on Tuesday,
November 22 at 8:45am. Their topic is called "The ABCs of DRT"
and addresses a tough situation
- how to speak with a family member on scene of an obvious death or
upon termination of resuscitation efforts. Chaplain
Straus was honored on the floor of the Texas State House of Representatives
for his service at Ground Zero. He is an author and public speaker.
This is going to be a very good conference Thank you CH
Gibson
Chaplain
Dwight Menix reporting in from New Mexico: My apology for
not checking in since the first of September; time just seems to fly
by too fast these days. I am still working on my Daily Devotionals
to start sharing with friends, family, and members of the community;
moreover, trying to find the time to teach school, grade papers, write
my devotionals, and work with members of the community is getting
more and more challenging. However, I do set aside the time to sit
and minister to one of my former 4th grade students from last year.
This 10 year old girl's step-father was tragically killed in a horse
accident at their home in early September. With his passing he left
a wife, a 10 year old step-daughter, and a 2 year old son. After talking
to this young girl, she stated that she does not believe in God and
the reason is that people make fun of you if you do; also, she is
mad that her step-father was taken from her and her family. For the
past two months I have been ministering to this young girl and planting
the seed of salvation in her heart. With God's Grace and Mercy I will
reach this young girl and lead her to accept Christ as her Savior.
Please pray for her. Thank
you CH Gibson
PLEASE
TAKE THE TIME: Today please take the time to remember those
in the armed forces, Law Enforcement, Fire Fighters and EMS Emergency
services serving in harms way here at home and world wide. Keep them
and their families in your prayers. We give thanks to all members
of our Law Enforcement, Fire Departments and EMS Emergency services,active
duty military, Reserves and National Guard. We thank all our warriors
for protecting our rights to enjoy our freedom. Please keep all our
troops and First responders in your daily prayers. Thank you CH
Gibson
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