This past Tuesday evening was the inaugural National Night Out in Falls Church City. Members of The City of Falls Church Police, Sheriff's Department, Volunteer Fire Department, and of the Arlington County Fire Department, along with other sponsors from the community, joined together at Cherry Hill Park for an evening of games, food, and community building. The Falls Church Episcopal proudly manned a booth with glow sticks and photos of our partnership with FCPD in hosting various meetings, classes, and celebrations for the department, as well as highlighting Fr. Burl’s service as one of the police chaplains.
Children (and let's face it, even adults) had the opportunity to “pet” police cars, look inside the back of an ambulance, watch K-9 demonstrations, try on swat gear, dunk an officer, and to ask questions of our local first responders. In return, our local responders were able to share their experiences, joys, and challenges with those whom they serve in a fun and relaxed environment.
In a twist of fate, my wife happened to be in line for food when an officer came up to her and said “didn’t I jump your dead battery in a parking lot last year?” Turns out he did- which is not normally their policy, but he saw our daughter in the back seat and an overwhelmed mom, and decided to go above and beyond to make someone's day a little easier. We ended up meeting his wife and son, and chatting it up about raising kids and living in this area. It was as if we were longtime friends.
Having a chance to "break bread with the blue" at National Night Out was a reminder that behind the uniforms and imposing gear are people- breathing, feeling, humans just like you and me. Men and women with kids, wives, and families at home, who genuinely care but make mistakes from time to time. Let's face it, it's easy to focus on the “bad apples” and Lord knows they exist in every field out there, the church included. But we are so much greater when we focus on the good and the commonalities we all share.
I’m so grateful to have spent time learning about those who serve my family and community while gaining a small glimpse into what they do day in and day out. It makes me wonder- what can we learn from people we don't usually spend time with and how can we make a point of reaching out to them?
Joel Wood
Parish Administrator & Communications Director
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