Chelsea police officers have visited four of the city’s houses of worship this fall, sharing meals and conversation with congregations as part of the department’s Faith & Blue 2026 series. The next stop is Revive Community Church on Friday, October 16, at 6 p.m., and the department is inviting residents to come meet officers.
Al Huda Society, October 9
The fourth gathering brought officers to Al Huda Society, where they joined members of Chelsea’s Muslim community for a meal and “meaningful conversations,” the department said. “It was an opportunity to sit across the table from one another, ask questions, exchange perspectives, and strengthen the relationships that make Chelsea such a special community,” the department wrote. It credited Mohamed Lamaallem of Al Huda Society with organizing the evening.
“These gatherings remind us that community policing isn’t just about the work we do on the streets,” the department wrote. “It’s about the relationships we build, the conversations we have, and the trust we earn along the way.”
St. Luke’s-San Lucas, October 4, and a fire
At St. Luke’s-San Lucas Episcopal Church on Sunday, October 4, officers joined the congregation on a day when the church welcomed its new priest for a first service, with the Prayer of St. Francis and a blessing of pets. Partway through, a small electrical fire forced everyone outside. The Chelsea Fire Department responded quickly, and the congregation finished its service outdoors, then went on with a meal, according to the department. Councillor Lisa Santagate, who attended, described the scene at the City Council meeting the next night.
Luz de Cristo, October 2
The second stop was Iglesia Luz de Cristo on Friday, October 2, an evening of “faith, fellowship, music, prayer, and community connection.” City Manager Fidel Maltez and Police Chief Keith Houghton spoke along with local pastors, and the department thanked Pastors Ellen Rohan Ball and Keila Velez.
Next stop
Revive Community Church, Friday, October 16, at 6 p.m. “Different faiths. Shared values. One Chelsea,” the department wrote. “We hope to see you at the next one!”