Chaplain Program
The Police Chaplain Program exists primarily to support the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of McMinnville Police Department personnel and their families. Policing is a demanding profession that regularly involves exposure to trauma, grief, high-stakes decision making, long hours, and the weight of serving the community in difficult circumstances. The chaplain provides a steady, confidential presence and practical support before, during, and after tough calls.
How the chaplain supports MPD personnel
• On-scene support during critical incidents when requested
• Post-incident check-ins and follow-up care after difficult calls
• Support for personnel and family members during personal crises
• Hospital visits and support during injury, illness, or loss
• Stress support, wellness conversations, and encouragement
• Spiritual care and prayer upon request (always voluntary)
• Connection to resources, including peer support, clinicians, and community services
• Participation in department ceremonies, memorials, and trainings as appropriate
Support for community members
While the program is focused on caring for department personnel, the chaplain may also provide support to community members during difficult situations when requested through the department (for example, at a scene, in the hospital, or after a notification). Chaplain support is offered to people of any faith background, as well as those with no religious affiliation.
Role and authority
The police chaplain is a volunteer position and is not a law enforcement officer. The chaplain has no law enforcement authority and does not participate in investigations.
Confidentiality
Conversations with the chaplain are treated as private and shared only with your permission, except in limited circumstances where disclosure is required by law or necessary to prevent immediate harm.
Meet our chaplain
Chaplain Leo Keelan serves as the McMinnville Police Chaplain and provides confidential support for sworn and professional staff, their families, and community members when requested. He offers on-scene support during critical incidents, assistance with difficult notifications, and follow-up care. Chaplain Keelan is trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and serves in public-safety chaplaincy across multiple agencies in the region.
Request a chaplain
• Emergency: Dial 911
• Non-emergency dispatch (YCOM, 24/7): (503) 434-6500
• McMinnville Police Department business line: (503) 434-7307
