Cardinal Dolan, Rev. Bernard sworn in as NYPD's co-chief chaplains

The former archbishop of New York and prominent Brooklyn pastor take on new roles to serve the department's spiritual needs.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the former archbishop of New York, and Rev. A.R. Bernard, a prominent Brooklyn pastor, were sworn in as the NYPD's new co-chief chaplains on Wednesday. The Chaplains Unit has existed since 1906 to provide confidential counseling, spiritual assistance, and moral guidance to the department's members.

Why it matters

The appointment of these two respected religious leaders as co-chief chaplains reflects the NYPD's commitment to serving the diverse spiritual needs of its officers, who come from a wide range of backgrounds and faiths. The Chaplains Unit plays a critical role in supporting the emotional and mental well-being of the department's personnel.

The details

Cardinal Dolan and Rev. Bernard were officially sworn in as the NYPD's new co-chief chaplains during a ceremony attended by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Dolan, the former archbishop of New York, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the department, calling it a "calling." The Chaplains Unit was established in 1906 to provide confidential counseling, spiritual assistance, and moral guidance to NYPD members.

  • Cardinal Dolan and Rev. Bernard were sworn in as co-chief chaplains on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

The players

Cardinal Timothy Dolan

The former archbishop of New York who was sworn in as one of the NYPD's new co-chief chaplains.

Rev. A.R. Bernard

A prominent Brooklyn pastor who was sworn in as the other NYPD co-chief chaplain alongside Cardinal Dolan.

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City who spoke at the swearing-in ceremony for the new NYPD co-chief chaplains.

Jessica Tisch

The commissioner of the New York City Police Department who presided over the swearing-in of the new co-chief chaplains.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've been frequently thanking the lord for the abundant blessings he gave me during my 17 happy years here as archbishop and you know what, this morning's ceremony sure ranks high up among them. To serve the New York City Police Department is more than an honor. I consider it a calling.”

— Cardinal Timothy Dolan (cbsnews.com)

“For over 127 years, the chaplains of the NYPD have held the great responsibility of lifting that burden, of ensuring that no officer is forced to carry the weight of duty alone. Today, Rev. Bernard and Cardinal Dolan take up that responsibility as they become the NYPD's co-chief chaplains. These are two of New York City's most respected religious leaders.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (cbsnews.com)

“Today is a historic day for our department and our city as we swear in Cardinal Dolan and Rev. Bernard as chief chaplains of the New York City Police Department. One of the things that makes the NYPD extraordinary is that it reflects the city that it serves. Our members come from every background and every faith. And our Chaplains Unit reflects that same diversity: rabbis, priests, ministers, imams.”

— Jessica Tisch, NYPD Commissioner (cbsnews.com)

The takeaway

The appointment of Cardinal Dolan and Rev. Bernard as co-chief chaplains of the NYPD underscores the department's commitment to supporting the diverse spiritual needs of its officers and ensuring no member has to shoulder the burdens of duty alone. Their leadership will be crucial in maintaining the Chaplains Unit's long tradition of providing confidential counseling, moral guidance, and emotional support to the men and women who serve New York City.