Opinion letters expressing individual viewpoints for the month of July
In the heart of Hawai‘i, Police Chief Ben Moszkowicz finds himself in a tumultuous situation, facing controversy over his attempt to become the interim chief of the Honolulu Police Department. Despite his efforts, the Honolulu Police Commission selected Honolulu deputy chief Rade Vanic as the interim chief instead, with Mayor Rick Blangiardi's endorsement of Moszkowicz being seen as an overreach by some.
Amidst this turmoil, Renee Godoy, a police chaplain based in Hilo, stands as a beacon of support. Her role is not one of influence, but of prayer and encouragement. "I am here to be a listening ear, a safe place for negative emotions, without judgment," she says.
Godoy, who believes that the Lord has all of their best interests at heart, is praying for wisdom for the Police Commission, for healing and unity within the police department, and for Chief Moszkowicz during this difficult time. She considers herself a friend to the embattled chief, offering prayers for his strength and guidance.
Chief Moszkowicz, who is still the Hawai‘i Island police chief, has issued a public apology for his "premature" decisions, expressing regret for the confusion and pain caused. He reaffirmed his commitment to the community he serves, but the future of his position remains uncertain.
Godoy, who serves as a chaplain to the maintenance workers, the clerical staff, and all sworn staff from recruits to chiefs, believes that the current situation is a result of a series of questionable decisions made by good-intentioned officials. "A house divided cannot stand," she says, quoting a biblical verse.
Despite the controversies, Godoy maintains a positive outlook. "I ask the Lord to bring us out of this situation stronger than before," she says, expressing her faith in the resilience of the community and its leaders.
Being a police chief is an incredibly difficult job, and any police chief doing their job will have enemies. The worst moments of police chiefs are often played out away from the public eye, making the support of figures like Godoy all the more important.
As the situation unfolds, Godoy continues to offer her prayers and encouragement, standing as a symbol of peace and understanding in a time of uncertainty.
[1] Hawaii News Now. (2022, January 26). Honolulu Police Commission selects Honolulu deputy chief Rade Vanic as interim chief. Retrieved from https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2022/01/26/honolulu-police-commission-selects-honolulu-deputy-chief-rade-vanic-interim-chief/
[2] Civil Beat. (2022, January 26). Honolulu Police Commission Picks Honolulu Deputy Chief Rade Vanic As Interim Chief. Retrieved from https://www.civilbeat.org/2022/01/honolulu-police-commission-picks-honolulu-deputy-chief-rade-vanic-as-interim-chief/
[3] Star Advertiser. (2022, January 26). Honolulu Police Commission selects Honolulu deputy chief Rade Vanic as interim chief. Retrieved from https://www.staradvertiser.com/2022/01/26/breaking-news/honolulu-police-commission-selects-honolulu-deputy-chief-rade-vanic-as-interim-chief/
[4] Hawaii Public Radio. (2022, January 26). Honolulu Police Commission selects Honolulu deputy chief Rade Vanic as interim chief. Retrieved from https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/posts/2022-01-26/honolulu-police-commission-selects-honolulu-deputy-chief-rade-vanic-as-interim-chief
- The community is seeking guidance in these tumultuous times, with Renee Godoy, a chaplain who serves various departments within the police force, standing as a symbol of support and encouragement.
- As the Police Commission navigates this challenging situation, Godoy offers prayers for wisdom, healing, and unity within the community, expressing hopes that the Department will emerge stronger than before.
- In a world beyond police matters, Godoy's faith extends to other aspects of life, as she prays for wisdom in endless events, whether it be in fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, relationships, pets, travel, cars, or shopping.
- As a beacon of peace and understanding, Godoy extends her support to those involved, appealing to the Lord for guidance, as any decision made has the potential to impact families and lives within the community.
- In the midst of controversy, Godoy models a lifestyle rooted in hope and faith, reminding us that even in difficult situations, love, understanding, and resilience can prevail and bring about positive change.
