Archdiocese of Denver
20
Juvenile Detention Ministry
J
uvenile facilities differ in their treatment
plans depending on the risk level of the
child or youth, and the seriousness of the
crime. The facilities focus on strengthening
children, youth, and families through evi-
dence-based practices and data-informed
services. Safety, trauma-informed care, family
engagement and hope are the cornerstones
of all aspects of their care. Partnering with
community providers, they link services for
aftercare and follow-up services.
One deacon visits a lower risk level residen-
tial facility and holds a Communion service for
the youth. After his homily he listens to their
worries and concerns, and shares messages
of God's love and mercy through prayers, the
rosary, and a blessing. Another deacon sits on
the Advisory Committee that makes decisions
on policies and procedures for that facility.
He is also available to the parents who have
concerns or spiritual needs while the child is a
resident, and prays for the residents and their
families daily during the Divine Mercy Chaplet
and Eucharistic Adoration.
Chaplaincy for Police and Fire Personnel Ministry
T
he first responder ministry is a multi-fac-
eted ministry. It focuses on working with
first responders suffering f rom PTSD due to
their line of work, deaths, other traumatic loss-
es, and struggles within the family. This min-
istry helps provide resources as well as peer
counseling, with much of the work involving
Church related matters and teaching.
The deacon counsels the police officer or
firefighter, sometimes for an extended period
to help them heal f rom their experience,
and refers them to professional counseling if
needed. The deacon prays with them, shares
his faith, as well as provides opportunities for
Communion service.
i
Deacon Joe Gerber
jgerber700@aol.com
Deacon Mladen Martinovic
makivfil@comcast.net
i
Deacon George Fortunato
george32849@gmail.com
