First responder chaplains are a growing force among chaplains and emergency services personnel. These brave individuals work on the front lines of local, state, and national disasters, ready to administer spiritual aid to the injured and traumatized. In the wake of devastating storms, hurricanes, floods, tornados, earthquakes, tsunamis, and other catastrophes, first responder chaplains can provide much-needed comfort and hope.
First Responder Chaplains is a great resource for anyone contemplating the first steps toward taking on this role. Author Dr. Larry Bennett uses his own experience as a chaplain for police departments and fire and rescue teams to explain-and underscore-the level of expertise needed for the program.
Bennett emphasizes that volunteer experience and emergency training isn't all that is needed to become a first responder chaplain. A specialized course of study exists for such chaplains, and anyone interested in the program must complete all the necessary specialized training.
Information about the theology of chaplaincy is also part of Bennett's message. Chaplaincy can take a physical, emotional, and spiritual toll, and he stresses the importance of setting boundaries and knowing limitations. Using anecdotes from his own work, Bennett illustrates the many different ways that first responder chaplains serve.
About the Author: Dr. Larry Bennett has spent more than twenty-five years studying chaplaincy and learning new methods, techniques, and approaches to the field.
After attending Lee University in Tennessee, he went on to receive a master's degree in divinity and an honorary doctorate of divinity from the International Bible College and Seminary.
Bennett is a member of the International Conference of Police Chaplains and currently serves as its assistant director of training in Florida. He also serves as chaplain for the Winter Haven Police Department and Polk County Fire/Rescue. Dedicated to developing a strong foundation of individuals qualified for the demands of the role, he consults with police and fire departments on creating their own chaplaincy programs. He also serves as assistant coordinator for the Polk County Critical Stress Management Team.
When not teaching chaplaincy, Bennett enjoys golfing, traveling, and advocating for the chaplaincy cause.
