Members of the police Motorised Patrol Division join in giving praise during a thanksgiving service on Sunday in Kingston. - Norman Grindley/Chief Photographer
The area Seven Sports Complex at the Elletson Road Police Station was transformed into a church hall Sunday morning as officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force's Motorised Patrol Division gathered for a service of thanksgiving.
Police personnel from all ranks in the division came together as one to bring praises and honour to God during the service, which was held under the theme, 'You can win your battle walking with Jesus'.
Deputy Superintendent (DSP) Reginald Anthony Mowatt told the gathering that despite the many dangers and hardships that they might face while carrying out their duties, they should be reminded that with God's help they will succeed.
"We have a mighty battle to fight but we can win with the Lord for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal," he said while making reference to II Corinthians 10:3, 4.
DSP Mowatt called on members of the force who are Christians to be an example to their colleagues and to the rest of the country.
"A Christian is a person who walks with God," he noted. "To walk with God we must possess godliness. Walking with God is a steady progressive relationship, not just a casual acquaintance," he emphasised.
"Walking with God may not always be smooth, but it is always safe," he added.
He further encouraged the officers to remain committed to the task at hand, despite the many struggles they might face each day. Custos of Kingston Bishop Carmen Stewart commended the police personnel for their work. She encouraged them to continue to be examples to the youth of Jamaica while carrying out their jobs to the best of their ability.
"You are carrying out a wonderful role for our country. Keep up the good work and remember that it pays to live upright," she told them.
Some members of the motorised division on Sunday said they were quite happy to be starting the week of activities in a church service, as it is not a customary practice for many police personnel.
"Unfortunately, most people associate police officers with church only when there is a funeral, so I am happy that we could come together in this manner," said one member of the force.