New York City Police Department, New York
End of Watch Thursday, April 6, 2023
Reflections for Lieutenant John S. Welch
I first met John in the sixth grade. We were great friends when we were young. Life drifted us apart, but we reconnected the day when John was "flown in" to my command, as we needed a boss on the desk for that tour. Neither one of us knew that we were both on the same job. We hadn't seen each other in about 15 years. We reminisced about the old days and we stayed in touch after that. It was heartbreaking to hear that he became sick. John was a faithful Catholic and remained so all the way to the end. Thank you for dedicating your life to being a Police Officer, thank you for being a great person, and thank you for being my friend. Rest in peace Brother.
Ret. Sgt. Kevin Brady
New York City Police Department
January 17, 2025
Heavenly Father, lively is the courage of those who hope in You. Your servant, our Brother-in-Blue, Lieutenant John S. Welch, of the New York City Police Department, suffered greatly as a result of his assigned duty at the 9/11 Terrorist Attack sites in New York City beginning on September 11, 2001, but placed his trust in Your mercy. Confident that the petition of those who mourn pierces the clouds and finds an answer, I beg You, give rest to Lieutenant John S. Welch. O Lord, do not remember his transgressions, but look upon his sufferings and grant him refreshment, light and peace. I ask this in the mighty and holy Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by His authority, I pray. Amen.
God's Mission for America's Peace Officers:
"For the policeman does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don't want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he will have you punished. He is sent by God for that very purpose." (Romans 13: 3-4 TLB)
God's Word of Support, Comfort, and Hope:
"Blessed are those who make peace. They will be called God's children."
(Matthew 5:9 GW);
"Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, "Whom will I send? Who will go for us?" I said, "Here I am. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8 GW);
"The greatest love you can show is to give your life for your friends."
(John 15:13 GW), and;
"Blessed are those who mourn. They will be comforted." (Matthew 5:4 GW).
Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA
Ordained/Licensed/Certified Independent Christian Clergy
Chaplain for America's Peace Officers and their Families
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA
Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)
December 24, 2024
Thank you for your sacrifice for our nation. May you be with the Lord and may he be with your family.
Det. Russ Cain
Pittsburgh PD
December 24, 2024