In this episode, Nathan sits down with Pastor and Police Chaplain Jared Altic from Wyandotte County Christian Church in Kansas City, Kansas. For over 25 years, Jared has pastored his church, and for the last decade he has also served as a volunteer chaplain with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department.
Jared shares how God led him from the safety of his study into the hard, complicated world of first responders, trauma, and moral injury. He explains:
- How he was first introduced to police chaplaincy and why he sees it as a calling, not a hobby
- What it looks like to respond to death notifications, homicides, overdoses, and family tragedies alongside officers
- The unique pressures on police and their families—from life‑and‑death danger to frustration with the justice system and growing public cynicism
- Why building trust with officers can take years, and how simply “showing up” again and again opens doors for real ministry
- How he offers deeply Christian care and hope in a way that is wise, respectful, and non‑pushy—more “Tolkien subtle” than “CS Lewis obvious” in a secular environment
Jared also talks about his work as host of the Hey Chaplain podcast, created with a young, exhausted 25‑year‑old cop on the night shift in mind. Through interviews with experienced officers, chaplains, and experts from around the world, the show offers practical wisdom on:
- Surviving a law‑enforcement career without losing your marriage, faith, or mental health
- Facing trauma, addiction, and suicidal thoughts with honesty and hope
- Finding examples of officers who have walked through the darkest valleys and did not give up
If you’ve ever wondered what police chaplains actually do, how Christians can serve in high‑stress public safety environments, or you feel drawn toward chaplaincy yourself, this conversation will both encourage and sober you. Jared’s story is a powerful reminder that being “salt and light” often starts with simply standing beside people in their hardest moments.
Learn more about Jared and the Hey Chaplain podcast:
- Website: heychaplain.com
- Podcast: Search for “Hey Chaplain” on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube (audio only)
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