Someone may ask: "Why would a manufacturing plant have in their employ an ordained minister as "Company Chaplain?" This question is especially relevant in an age when there is so much emphasis on the separation of church and state. It is a privilege for me to answer that question for you.

Hale Manufacturing is a second generation, family owned and operated corporation. The roots of this company go back far and deep. The founders, the Homer Hunter family, had serious spiritual values which have been translated into the very fabric of the work. These values and their commitment to excellence in all undertakings assures faithfulness in all transactions. Their unquestionable ethics and moral values with regard to employees, customers and suppliers instills a solid sense of trust. Our current owner and chairman has chosen to continue the convictions of the past and enhance them for this current generation.

The products manufactured at Hale must be of the utmost and highest standards, as they create very sophisticated testing devices for wire harnesses in automobiles, as well as other products. This work is exceedingly demanding and at times stressful, for there is no margin of error permitted. To assist the employees in their very exacting work and to provide an opportunity for conversation concerning a variety of subjects, folks can come by the "Chaplain's Office" (a dedicated office for the use of the company Chaplain) and have a conversation about any subject that is on their hearts. This time is not subtracted from their schedule - it is part of the program of caring for the employees and their needs, including spiritual matters.

In addition, the Chaplain is also available to participate in weddings, funerals, baptisms, or other special occasions of workers and their families. For such events, the Chaplain is called upon at times other than his stated hours - ½ day per week. For the past 15 years, these relationships have grown and deepened to where we can say "The Company Chaplain is a part of the Hale Family."

I know these things because I am the Company Chaplain, and have been since the beginning of this ministry.
A privilege indeed!

Rev. Ward R. Potts

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