Chaplain Commander
Briane L. Dennison
(505)768-2131 bdennison@cabq.gov
About Us
Welcome to the homepage of the APD Volunteer Chaplain Unit!
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As we reflect over the past four decades, we are reminded of the early beginnings, when the Albuquerque Police Volunteer Chaplain Unit grew from a proposal by a local minister, the Reverend Virgil Bonto. Reverend Bonto approached then Chief of Police Paul A. Shaver and shared the vision of having a chaplain unit for the police department.
On March 10, 1969, Chief Shaver appointed the Reverend John A. "Jack" Price as the first Chaplain Commander to oversee 35 ministers and a motor vehicle donated by a local automobile agency. In 1998, the Albuquerque Law Enforcement Building was named after Commander Price.
Today, Department Chaplains continue to serve as "ambassadors" dedicated to providing a ministry of presence, support and counsel to members of the Albuquerque Police Department, their families and the community.
Thank you for taking the time to visit our homepage!
Mission and Guiding Principles
- Provide for the spiritual support of department employees and their families.
- Provide counsel and guidance to persons in crisis in the Albuquerque community.
- Provide a great work environment by working effectively with each other.
- Apply the highest standards of excellence to providing support to those requesting assistance.
- Maintain a presence that fosters the highest ethical conduct among employees.
- Foster public confidence and support by attending civic events and being available during periods of heightened public interest.
- Contribute positively to our Department and our community.
- Recognize that the spirit of service is essential to fulfilling our mission.
News
Chaplain Berry's 1934 Ford Coupe Available for Community Events
Chaplain Terry Berry has a love for people and cars. Before his wife, Kathy, of 38 years died of cancer, Chaplain Berry made a commitment to her to continue his service with the Chaplain Unit. In keeping with that commitment, Chaplain Berry offers to display his vintage 1934 Ford Coupe at community events, parades and racing competitions to share the mission of the APD Chaplain Unit. Anyone interested in Chaplain Berry's offer should contact the Chaplain Unit at (505)768-2131.
Operation Matthew Man
Operation Matthew Man was inspired by APD Officer David Ritche's 4 year old nephew Matthew, aka Matthew Man, who has Stage IV Neuroblastoma. During Matthew's stay at the University of New Mexico Children's Hospital, he sent his uncle, Officer Ritchie, to go visit his sick friends. In continuing with Matthew's request to bring hope and encouragement to other children, the children are visited throughout the year by their "heroes" the men and women of the Albuquerque Police Department and McGruff the Crime Dog. Each child receives a coloring book, crayons and a blanket, donated by caring citizens. To view Eyewitness News 4 KOB coverage of Matthew's visit please click on this link.
2011 Chaplain of the Year
Police Chief Ray Schultz recognized Chaplain Don Bruckner at the department's Awards and Appreciation Banquet on January 21st. Chaplain Bruckner was honored for his distinguished service as a volunteer. Full Story>>
Chaplains and Officers Deliver Food Baskets to Families
On December 17, 2011, ninety-three families received a special delivery from the Albuquerque Police Department - food, gifts, and a warm smile. The Christmas Food Challenge was inspired by Chaplain Leo Collymore, who wanted the men and women of the Albuquerque Police Department to give back to their community with food baskets to families in need.
Initially the goal was to deliver two food baskets, but Foothills Area Commander Cliff Saylor challenged Collymore to deliver 25 boxes. As a result, donations began pouring in from officers of the Foothills Area Command, neighborhood associations, churches and other units within the police department.
A grateful family remarked, "We have been going through some hard times lately. Yet to know that there are kind generous people like you all (APD) warmed our hearts and brought tears to our eyes. Thank you all for everything you do for us to keep our community a safe place for my children to grow up in."
Join Us
Will you answer the call? If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Police Chaplain:
Download, open, and print the following documents:
Application for Volunteer Police Chaplain
Complete the documents and return to the A.P.D. Chaplain Unit at 400 Roma NW, Rm. 101 or fax the documents to Chaplain Commander Briane L. Dennison at 505-768-2134.
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