Retiring for Real

In 2013, following her retirement as a Salvation Army officer, Lt-Colonel Margaret Arnold was invited to assume the role of Police Chaplain for the Waikato Police District. After another decade of service, she has recently retired for the second time.

Margaret describes her time working with police officers as ‘an extreme honour and privilege.’  Her duties were many and varied, and included providing a listening ear and encouragement to police personnel, supporting officers through critical incidents and upholding them in prayer.

While predominantly based at Hamilton Central Police Station, Margaret was also a regular visitor to the other police stations within Waikato District. Beyond her role providing emotional and spiritual support, Margaret was also known for her contributions of home baking which were well received by police officers. She was appointed Link Chaplain, co-ordinating with other chaplains in the district, in 2015.

Reflecting on her time in the role, Margaret describes her highlights as including blessing taonga, attending award ceremonies, welcoming new recruits and celebrating Remembrance Day. Of particular significance was Margaret’s involvement in the production of the Bible for Police with the Police Christian Support Network. She contributed a prayer to this resource and handed out over 80 Police Bibles during her chaplaincy.

In her retirement, Margaret is looking forward to enjoying her garden, her family and having time to read. She is also excited about upcoming travel and the opportunity to get more involved in her corps.