Faith in Uniform

James Ulrich

04 Dec 2010

Normally the first people on the scene after any tragedy, the earthquake included, are those special people who work or volunteer for the emergency services. Anglican Life caught up with three local Anglicans who share how their faith impacts life on the edge.

James Urlich Fire Service Volunteer, St John’s Woolston



“I worked from the Saturday of the earthquake through until the following Sunday every day. Our brigade attended approximately 200 calls from the Saturday morning to the next weekend. I was amazed at how our community came together to help each other: neighbours helping each other out and employers giving time off for people to help others. Witnessing firsthand the trauma and loss after a fire or accident can be very hard and my faith provides me with a strength to help those persons affected, including firefighters, and it helps me immensely to process the incident myself. My co-workers have been very supportive and have been a great encourager of my new ministry career, as I’m soon to be ordained. They have even mentioned that the brigade may appoint an honorary chaplain at some point in the future.”

Craig Smith St John Ambulance Volunteer, Amuri Cooperating Parish


“I have been warmly accepted by colleagues, who have dubbed me “Father Ted.” Some patients, too, have been profoundly moved to hear and see the minister driving or treating the patient in the back of the ambulance. Again, for me in twenty-first century New Zealand, it is crucial that the minister and Christians are seen to be involved in this ministry, not stereotyped as only being involved in “Christian” aspects of life such as Bible in Schools, important though that is. Being on “Ambo,” as it's known, is as important as being in church. To witness a fatality or a death does show the fragility of life. It is important to offer support to fellow officers who attend such events as well as not be frightened to seek help myself when I attend a fatality.”

Mark Worner Police, St Aidan's Bryndwr


“Most of my friends within the police know I am a practising Christian and are very supportive. I do get a bit of a ribbing sometimes, but it is light hearted and in good jest. In reality, many police officers are either practising Christians or come from a Christian home. It is quite amazing how often, when the subject of going to church on Sunday comes up at work and other officers find out that I am a Christian, they disclose that they are too or that they used to go to church and are thinking of going again. When dealing with offenders, you base your behaviour on your Christian beliefs; however, generally it is not a situation where you disclose being a Christian or preach to them. Likewise, when dealing with victims of crimes, it is your Christian beliefs that I believe give you the empathy, patience and understanding to be able to offer them the support they need.”