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Reverend Remo A. Madsen
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Township of Springfield Fire Department
200 Mountain Avenue
Springfield, New Jersey 07081
201-207-1085 Cellular
Chaplain to the Springfield Fire Department |
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What is a Fire Department Chaplain?
A chaplain provides a spiritual presence linking both the department and public together in the common goal of seeking to protect life, property, health and well - being. A chaplain's role is to represent God in a way that is inclusive, respectful and sensitive to all faith traditions, regardless of church, religion, or philosophy. He or she operates on the belief that all people are spiritual beings while everyone may not be connected to an organized religion. He is present to respond to the different emotional or spiritual needs that arise. The chaplain is a person in the department with whom conversations can be held in complete confidentiality.
It is a pleasure to serve as chaplain of the Springfield Fire Department. My responsibilities include:
- Being a pastoral presence to the fire fighters and their families.
- Celebrating religious ceremonies, conducting invocations at department functions such as awards ceremonies, dinners, dedications and other events.
- Extend the good will of our department to firefighters everywhere I meet them.
- Providing confidential counseling with those struggling with issues of crisis, loss and/or stress.
- Visiting those who are sick or hospitalized.
- Praying for the members of, and services provided by the Fire Department... When the pager sounds, I pray for the tour that is responding as well as for those whom the Firefighters are going to assist.
- Attending the scene of a fire or accident as necessary and upon request.
- After traumatic events, being part of the debriefing process.
- Being "on call" for anyone in the Fire Department in times of crisis.
- Being available to listen to the problems and concerns within the Department and to share the grief, sorrows, and the joys, both individually and collectively.
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A Firefighters Prayer
When I'm called to duty God
wherever flames may rage
give me strength to save a life
whatever be its age
Help me to embrace a little child
before it is too late
or save an older person from
the horror of that fate
Enable me to be alert
to hear the weakest shout
and quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out
I want to fill my calling and
to give the best in me
to guard my neighbor and
protect his property
And if according to your will
I have to lose my life
bless with your protecting hand
my children and my wife. |
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