FARMINGTON — Living Waters Assembly of God Church will host a Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on Wednesday, June 24, at the church, 549 Wilton Road.

A free barbecue will be offered for officers from noon to 7 p.m., along with free giveaways, the Rev. Steve Bracy said.

The congregation wants law enforcement officers to know they are appreciated for what they do for local communities, he said.

Each officer will also have a chance to win two $250 gift certificates to Cushing Motor Sports, he said.

“Just show us your badge and enter to win,” he said.

Farmington police Chief Jack Peck expressed appreciation for the event.

“I want to thank Pastor Bracy and his congregation for acknowledging what the officers do every day,” Peck said. “We appreciate their support and the community’s support.”

Every year, the church picks a mission to work on, something that takes its members beyond its walls — something that makes the members consider what they can do in the community, Bracy said.  

“There is so much going on,” he said. “We thought this would be a great thing to do.”

People may not really know about what law enforcement officers have to see and deal with, he said.

All police and game wardens are invited to park in the circular drive in front of the church and enjoy a barbecue meal of hamburgers, hot dogs and more. A noon and 5 p.m. barbecue will be held, he said. There will be plenty of good food, giveaways and two drawings.  

“We want to just honor them and show we appreciate what they do,” Bracy said.

The church wants to have a presence in the community and do some positive things to show we care and the love of Christ … with no strings attached, he added.

Although some Gideons will give out Bibles to police officers during the barbecue, the day is one for visiting with the officers and making it a special day for them, he said.

Bracy and the congregation are still considering plans for other activities to hold within the community over the year, he said.

Bracy estimates there are about 60 officers throughout the county. He hopes they will all “just swing by” for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.

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