Father Mazzone sworn in as State Police chaplain

Father James S. Mazzone was welcomed into the Massachusetts State Police Chaplain Corps. last week, the State Police reported on Monday.
Father Mazzone, pastor of St. John, Guardian of Our Lady Parish in Clinton, was sworn in as a chaplain by Col. John Mawn Jr. in a ceremony in the colonel’s office at General Headquarters, according to the State Police.
The chaplains’ service, which includes non-denominational spiritual support and counseling for police and community members, is voluntary, the release said. Chaplains often work with the Employee Assistance Unit.
“It’s a great honor to serve the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and our state troopers,” Father Mazzone told The Catholic Free Press. “I never served as a police chaplain. … I have a lot to learn. … I hope to contribute as much as I can.”
He said a good friend of his, Capt. Jon Provost, commandant of the State Police Academy in New Braintree, asked if he could assist the state police.
“I think he has a pulse on the need for chaplains,” Father Mazzone said. He said he got Bishop McManus’ permission, then accepted the invitation to be a chaplain.