The Monterey Police Department is hosting a fellowship gathering Thursday night with local pastors to better understand community needs.
Monterey Police Chief John Mackie said when he applied to be the police chief, he felt it was a good idea to reach out and connect with local pastors.
“I would like to get to know each and every one of the pastors of the community, and even outside of Monterey, because we do answer calls outside,” Mackie said. “And also just to get to see what their needs may be.”
Mackie said most of the time, the local churches have a better understanding of community needs than anyone else. Mackie said connecting with local churches would be a step in the right direction to better help the community.
“With all them together, some of them may not even know each other,” Mackie said. “And maybe this will put a contact in with each other as well, and knowing that they can rely on each other.”
Mackie said he hopes the police department can grow the fellowship gathering over time.
“My plans are to try to continue this like on a quarter basis, like every three months,” Mackie said. “If it grows bigger, maybe meet even closer in time.”
The fellowship gathering will take place at the Monterey Police Department and will begin at 6pm.
