A prayer for Moszkowicz and Police Commission
It’s been with a very heavy heart that I have watched the unfolding events that have led to the uncertainty before us as to the fate of our current Police Chief Ben Moszkowicz.
I have nothing but the highest regard for all of the officials involved on both sides of the issue. Good men who are devoted leaders with good intentions have made some questionable decisions that have led up to this unfortunate situation our department now finds itself in.
As chaplains, it’s important that we have the trust of those we serve. We must be a listening ear and a safe place to vent negative emotions in an incredibly stressful career.
I have worked hard to earn that trust — not only from those men and women in blue who are the boots on the ground, but from the rank who also have difficult roles of leadership. I believe that I am the chaplain to the maintenance workers, the clerical staff, and all the sworn staff from the recruits to the chiefs.
This means I have to listen to opposing views without judgment. It’s not my job to judge — it’s my job to pray and encourage anyone who is down when they’re down. And right now, the one in need of most encouragement is Chief Ben.
Being police chief of any department is an incredibly difficult job. Any police chief that is doing their job is going to have enemies. Most of us have the luxury of having our worst moments played out away from the public eye.
When you’re a high ranking official, all your mistakes are played out over the news for all to see and comment on. Sometimes, we forget that there are humans with a heart behind that badge of steel.
I’m not writing to sway anyone’s decision. The Police Commission has a sacred obligation to our community that I respect. I am writing as a friend to Chief Ben as I consider myself to be a friend to him — as well as to those who may oppose his staying on. It is not my job to try to exert influence on a decision that is not my responsibility to make.
I want to do what I do best — pray. This is my prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that you give our Police Commission the wisdom to make the right decision for our county. I pray for Chief Ben that you help him through this difficult time. I know that You have all of our best interests at heart and that You will be with him and his family, no matter what the future holds for him. I pray that you bring healing and unity to our department, because a house divided against itself cannot stand. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
May the Lord hear and answer this prayer and bring all of us out of this stronger than we were before this storm.
Renee Godoy
Police chaplain
Hilo