RIDGECREST, N.C. (BP)–Police officers, military personnel, judges and judicial branch representatives will gather at LifeWay Ridgecrest Conference Center near Asheville, N.C., to take part in the First Annual Law Enforcement Summit, Oct. 1-3.
“While the events of 9/11 increased our nation’s appreciation for heroism of our law enforcement officials and the dangers they face, there are few opportunities for officers to come together for a time of encouragement, fellowship and spiritual renewal,” said J. Paul Phillips, a Florida law enforcement veteran who, along with his wife, Elizabeth, has worked to develop the summit.
Coming soon after the one-year mark from the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the summit will include a special recognition service for officers killed in the line of duty and a full-dress opening ceremony.
Using the theme “The Star, the Shield, and the Cross,” the event is designed to offer law enforcement officers time for contemplation and relaxation, while also providing practical information about the financial, professional, domestic and spiritual aspects of life. Conference workshops led by law enforcement professionals will focus on stress management, communication, mentoring and avoiding temptations.
Bobby Smith, a former Louisiana state trooper, who was shot and blinded while on duty, will serve as the keynote speaker, while Ralph Sexton Jr., pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Asheville, and Wayne A. Barber, founder of To Live is Christ Ministries, will lead several summit sessions.
Musical guests will include Steve Wiggins, founder and lead singer of Big Tent Revival; Squire Parsons, an award-winning gospel singer and songwriter; and Promise, a praise and worship band.
The summit is open to all city, county, state or federal law enforcement employees and their spouses, including military personnel and those serving in the judicial branch.
For more information or to register, call 1-800-588-7222.
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