MATTOON â Wearing police caps, children at Maranatha Baptist Church headed to the front of the sanctuary and led the congregation in prayer in support of law enforcement officers Sunday morning.
Later in the service, the Rev. Dan Haifley told worshippers that the community s police officers are there to keep the peace and to protect them and their children. For example, he said, a motorist should not get mad for being ticketed for talking on a cellphone while driving and should instead consider that the officer was looking out for the safety of children along the roadways. When you see them (officers) out and about, say thank you for your service, Haifley said.