Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner Encourages Officers

By TJ Petrino   •   December 16, 2020

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) honored police officers and their spouses at Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinners in Charlotte, North Carolina, Dec. 14-16. The free events hosted by the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) are one of many ways the ministry is extending the love of Christ to officers. >>Learn more about BGEA's National Law Enforcement Ministry.
Will Graham spoke at the dinners, thanking those in attendance for their commitment to protecting and serving, especially in a difficult year for law enforcement officers and their families.
The events give officers a chance to let their guard down and enjoy a time of fellowship and reflection. >> You can help offer hope and healing to police officers and their spouses.
Dennis Agajanian kicked off the evenings with his guitar picking and uplifting music. As a chaplain for the Orange County Sheriff's Office in California, law enforcement ministry is dear to his heart.
The Tommy Coomes Band took the stage for more hope-filled music pointing back to Christ.
Attendees enjoyed a tasty meal with fellow friends and colleagues, something that's not always possible in their demanding line of work.
Will Graham didn't let the evenings end without urging attendees to ensure they are in right standing with God. "[If] you do all of this preparation in your physical job but haven’t prepared for life after death, you’re gambling with eternity," he said on Monday, noting the dangers police officers face each day. >> Do you know where you'll spend eternity? Start a relationship with God today.
Luther Harrison, vice president of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, shared how the dinners were sparked by an idea from Franklin Graham to show officers support in these difficult times. Harrison served with the Boone (N.C.) Police Department for 14 years and understands some of the daily obstacles officers face.
As part of its National Law Enforcement Ministry, RRT also hosts Law Enforcement Retreats. >> The next retreat will be held in Texas this March.
Jack Munday, BG-RRT's international director, shared that every officer would receive a gift bag on their way out, including a Billy Graham Training Center Bible.
"Appreciation is what the event is for and that's what officers crave—to feel appreciated, for once, to feel encouraged," said Huntersville, North Carolina, police officer Andrew Walters (not pictured). >> Learn more about the BGEA's plans to expand its law enforcement ministry in 2021.