What began as a simple gesture towards police officers in Arlington has now become a full-fledged international movement.
When Officer Tim Henz began his career with the Arlington Police Department 31 years ago, his mother made it a habit to pray for his safety.
"Mom always said there's power in prayer," said Henz.
And she found herself praying a lot more when Henz's two brothers also became police officers.
"And it was at that point that my mom realized that not just I needed prayers, but all officers needed prayers," said Henz.
She got members of her church and the Arlington Police Chaplain to join her – and together, they launched the "Shield a Badge with Prayer" program.
"The only requirement is a prayer a day for their safety," said Henz.
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After an article ran in the paper back in 1989, other churches began signing on. And when other cities learned what was happening in Arlington, they asked Henz's mom how they could do the same thing in their communities.
Now, 25 years later, the program has spread all over the U.S. and even Canada.
"I would have never believed today that it's as popular as it is," said Henz.
Henz says the program means a tremendous amount to the officers, who often receive letters or cards from their prayer sponsors.
"I have officers come up to me and say that they had a really bad week. Then all of a sudden, they open up a card in the mail – and it was a Shield A Badge sponsor who was saying we're praying for you and hope you have a good day," said Henz. "And it just turns everything all the way around."
After Henz's mother passed away, he and his brothers decided they would continue her mission. They hope even more cities, states, and countries will join over the next 25 years.
For more information on how you can get involved with Shield A Badge, you can visit www.shield-a-badge.org or call the Arlington Police Department at (817) 453-1940.
