Chaplain Program Mission Statement

The Chaplain Program began as an innovative approach to meeting several needs in our community. Chaplains work with law enforcement personnel on a professional level by making themselves immediately available astrained and caring professionals who can assist in times of loss, confusion, depression, or grief to people in crisis situations.  The Chaplains provide this service not only to the community, but also to all department employees and their families as well.  

Chaplain Program

The purpose of the Sheriff's Chaplain Program is to assist deputies in dealing with people in crisis situations. The Chaplain is equipped to deal with situations where counseling, comforting or reassuring would be of help. This type of situation would include, but not be limited to, death notification, some domestic altercations, death or near death emergencies, and other emotional non-violent occurrences.

The Chaplain must be an ordained minister of a recognized denomination, or a reputable independent church or religious organization and:

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Be of sound health and possess a valid California Driver's License
• Willing to be fingerprinted for a security clearance
• Endorsed by denomination or congregation for service as a Sheriff's Chaplain
• Exhibit and maintain high moral and character standards

The current head chaplain is Fr. Edward Fitz-Henry from the Old Mission, San Juan Bautista. 

Applications to become involved with the Sheriff's Chaplain Program are available at the Sheriff's Office, 451 4th Street, Hollister, CA. or you may request an application be mailed to you by calling Deputy Tony Lamonica, 831-636-4080 ext. 57.

For more information, questions or comments about this program,
contact Sergeant Tony Lamonica at 831-636-4080 ext. 29 or email tlamonica@sbcsheriff.org.