During the next few months the department plans to use its Facebook page to introduce each of the department’s 11 chaplains.
Monsignor Rich LaVerghetta was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop John C. Reiss, May 24, 1986. His assignments have included parochial vicar of Epiphany Parish, Brick; diocesan director, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries; adjunct professor of homiletics in Seton Hall University, South Orange, and pastor, St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square.
Msgr. LaVerghetta was appointed as diocesan secretary of Pastoral Life in 1998, overseeing the departments of Worship, Parish Life and Spiritual Renewal. He has served the parish community of St. Joan of Arc since 2007 .
The ETPD Chaplain Program was established to serve and support the Evesham Police Department, focused on providing spiritual support for the community during traumatic events and incidents when called upon 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Police chaplains respond to counsel, assist and support victims and others touched by critical incidents and crises, including death notifications, suicide, homicides, hostage situations, kidnapping and other traumatic events.
Police chaplains are specially trained to handle crisis situations and also provide follow-up counseling, group debriefings and individual intervention. Police chaplains are trained to minister to people of all faiths.
Police chaplains are non-paid volunteers, and as such all chaplaincy services are provided at no cost to individuals, families or the department.
