CHAPLAIN CODE

1. Mission and Goals of Chaplaincy Service

The chaplain serves to:

  • Provide spiritual, moral, and psychological support to law enforcement officers, rescuers, and their families.
  • Promote the strengthening of moral values, dignity, and responsibility within law enforcement agencies.
  • Assist in difficult life and service situations, particularly during crises, losses, and stress.

2. Principles of Chaplaincy Service

  1. Impartiality:
    • The chaplain serves all law enforcement officers, regardless of their faith, political beliefs, or social status.
  2. Spiritual Ethics:
    • The chaplain’s behavior should be an example of morality, integrity, and honor.
  3. Confidentiality:
    • Information obtained from law enforcement officers during conversations or consultations is strictly confidential and cannot be disclosed.
  4. Respect for the Law:
    • The chaplain must support law and order and help strengthen trust in law enforcement agencies.
  5. Adaptability:
    • The chaplain must be ready to serve in any conditions, including crisis and extreme situations.

3. Chaplain’s Responsibilities

3.1. Chaplain’s Assistant

  • Supports the chaplain in organizing and conducting spiritual and educational activities.
  • Coordinates communication between the chaplain and law enforcement units.
  • Assists in preparing lectures and training.
  • Facilitates group meetings for law enforcement officers (psychological support, training).
  • Maintains a contact database and manages meeting and event schedules.
  • Provides initial consultation for law enforcement officers as needed.
  • Organizes volunteer work to support the chaplaincy mission.
  • Must undergo basic training at the International Chaplain Academy or through ICPC or Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy programs.

3.2. Chaplain

  • Provides spiritual care and psychological support to law enforcement officers and their families.
  • Organizes necessary ceremonies and formal events.
  • Conducts individual discussions with officers regarding their spiritual and moral concerns.
  • Assists in resolving conflicts and moral dilemmas among staff members.
  • Provides support in crisis situations (combat actions, injuries, losses).
  • Interacts with leadership to coordinate the chaplain’s activities.
  • Conducts educational events to enhance the spiritual and moral levels of law enforcement officers.
  • Provides support to the families of law enforcement officers, especially in difficult situations (injuries, death).
  • The chaplain must undergo a training program and probationary period as appointed by the senior chaplain.

3.3. Senior Chaplain

  • Coordinates the work of chaplains and their assistants in a specific region or structural unit.
  • Develops and implements a strategy for spiritual service to law enforcement agencies.
  • Ensures training and professional development for chaplains and assistants.
  • Interacts with senior law enforcement officials and other government structures to ensure effective chaplaincy service.
  • Organizes large-scale events and initiatives (regional or national).
  • Resolves conflicts and issues arising in the work of chaplains.
  • Ensures the availability of resources (equipment, materials, volunteer support) for effective service.
  • Supervises the fulfillment of duties by chaplains and their assistants.
  • Reports to the leadership of the G.F. and other organizations supporting chaplaincy service.
  • Is elected and approved by the decision of the Senior Chaplains’ Council.

4. Chaplain is strictly prohibited from:

  • Using their position to promote political, religious, or other ideologies.
  • Disclosing confidential information obtained during service.
  • Interfering in the service, operational-search, or administrative processes of law enforcement agencies.
  • Demonstrating bias or treating anyone with disrespect.

5. Interaction with Law Enforcement Agencies

  • Coordinate their activities with the leadership of units, ensuring effectiveness and coherence in actions.
  • Act in accordance with the approved rules and regulations of law enforcement agencies in Ukraine.