Allen County Sheriff Chaplain

Pastor Nate Widener • January 26, 2026

Pastor Nate received a Special Deputy Status: Allen County Jail Chaplain under the Allen County Sheriff's Department

Last Wednesday, January 21st, our own Pastor Nate Widener, was sworn in at the Allen County Courthouse to serve as a Chaplain for the new program started by the Allen County Sheriff's Department. Under the encouragement of our Elders and Board of Directors, he has undergone 50 hours of additional training for this program over the last year.


According to the article found on Wayne 15, Sheriff Troy Hershberger said he has been working to bring the chaplaincy program to fruition for one and a half years after watching his officers struggle without one.


“The Chaplaincy Program ensures that when [officers] need support, they have someone who will be there for them with compassion and confidentiality,” Hershberger said. “But this program extends beyond our department walls. Our chaplains will also walk alongside community members during their darkest moments—offering comfort after loss, hope during crisis, and support throughout life’s most challenging journeys.”


Pastor Nate thanks those members of our congregation who initially shared his name with the Allen County Sheriff's Department and encouraged him along the way. He appreciates all of your continued prayers for him, the other chaplains, and every officer and first responder who currently serve and have served.


Article on Wayne 15 News HERE

Pictured from left to right: Natasha Andrews, Greg Andrews, Mark Broom, Rev. Nathan Widener, William Curry

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