Top Cop Hits MOBC
Who was in trouble with the law ? Was it our parking habits ? Or maybe our phanton sermon sleeper had finally been outed ?
But seriously, it was a crime if you missed New South Wales’ Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione’s visit to MOBC on Thursday evening September 24.
After a hearty, and deliciously nutritious two-course meal, more than 100 men (including MOBC members, regulars, and visitors) enjoyed a few rounds of trivia questions before Pastor Tim Burns interviewed the state’s top cop… in an informal “Michael Parkinson style” setting.
To say it was interesting was a gross understatement.
The theme of Mr Scipione’s message… in his own words… was “I’m a Christian who just happens to be the Police Commissioner, not a Police Commissioner who happens to be a Christian”. Apart from sharing how he became a Christian as a young teenager, the Commissioner recounted his career steps over the 30 years he’s been in the police force and admitted none of them would have been possible without God’s grace. He emphasised how tough it was being a policeman, and how he’d often doubted himself…particularly as a young cop, with (then) a young family. But again he paid tribute to God’s leading and provision, and said he’s never regretted remaining consistent and true to what he believes, conceding he would have been branded a “phoney” if he hadn’t.
The Commissioner said Micah 6 v 8 had been a personal motto: “And what does the Lord require of you ? To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God”. He asked for our prayers for ALL New South Wales police officers, and believed HE serves them… not the other way around.
The interview finished with a number of questions from the floor, during which the Commissioner opened up even further about his faith and the challenges of being a policeman. Mr Scipione also paid tribute to his wife of 30 years, for her unwavering spiritual encouragement.
He also encouraged community and youth leaders to work with the police to help lower crime rates… particularly associated with young people.
The Commissioner’s message was both challenging and encouraging… it capped off a highly successful evening.
A big thank you to everyone involved, particularly to those in the kitchen.
If you missed this one, we’ll let you off with a warning this time !!! Can’t wait for the next men’s gathering at MOBC.
John Pearson.
