“One Mission, One Heart”
By Paul Russell
Scripture: “Though we are many, we form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” — Romans 12:5
September always feels like a shift. Summer starts winding down, the days get a little shorter, and life settles into a different pace. For those of us in emergency services, it’s a good reminder to slow down for a moment, breathe, and take stock of where we’ve been, and where God might be leading us next.
Across every role, firefighters, dispatchers, law enforcement, medics, search and rescue, emergency management, chaplains, and everyone who supports behind the scenes, we share the same mission. Our jobs may look different, but the heart behind them is the same: serving with courage, compassion, and unity. It’s not about being the same; it’s about bringing our strengths together for the good of others.
And as we step into September, we can’t help but remember Chaplain Fr. Mychal Judge, the FDNY chaplain who became the first recorded death on 9/11. He lived his calling with a quiet humility and a deep love for the people he served. His prayer says everything about the way he approached life and ministry:
“Lord, take me where You want me to go; Let me meet who You want me to meet; Tell me what You want me to say; And keep me out of Your way.”
On that morning, he ran toward danger with the firefighters he cared for and loved, offering comfort and prayer right up to his final breath. His example reminds us that chaplaincy, and really, all service, is about showing up with courage and compassion, even in the hardest moments.
As summer ends and a new season begins, it’s a good time to renew our commitment to serve well, to honor every person, every department, every background, and every calling. We’re at our strongest when we stand together.
And we would be remiss if we didn’t recognize that it has been 25 years since 9/11, a day that changed our nation and deepened our resolve to serve with courage, compassion, and unity. The sacrifices made that day, including Chaplain Judge’s, still shape the heart of our mission.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for every responder and every support member who serves with courage and compassion. As we move into a new season, strengthen our unity and keep our hearts steady in Your peace. And like Chaplain Mychal Judge prayed, may we also say: “Lord, take me where You want me to go; let me meet who You want me to meet; tell me what You want me to say; and keep me out of Your way.”
Guide our hands, steady our spirits, and help us serve with Your heart. Amen.
On HIS Shift,
Paul