Former Toronto Police Sgt. Jonathan Reid has retired from the force to become a Baptist Minister.
Former Toronto Police Const. Jonathan Reid has turned in his firearm and bullet proof vest for a Bible and a cross as a Baptist Minister.
Reid, 42, retired from the force March 26 after serving 17 years, mostly at 22 Division as a Community Neighbourhood Officer.
He knows the community well and said it was a tough decision to leave the force but he had to follow his calling.
“I have always been a religious person since an early age,” Reid says. “I always dreamed of being a police officer and I have done that. It’s time to do something else.”
Now Minister Jonathan Reid will be praying for his congregation on Sundays as well as conducting other pastorial work.
The former officer has been recognized by community members for his work with teens and helping them stay on track and out of trouble. He is credited by parents for helping their children stay in school and get an education.
He loves South Etobicoke, has patrolled certain areas by bike, and at one time took part in a program for teens at Franklin Horner Community Centre.
“ It’s all been through word of mouth,” Reid says. “I will miss the comradery with my former co-workers.”
Reid said he will miss helping people as a police officer, but now he can help them spiritually and in other ways.
In his new role, he will be an Assistant Pastor at the Cornerstone Baptist Tabernacle, at Blackthorn Avenue, in Toronto.
Minister Reid leading his flock at the Cornerstone Baptist Tabernacle.
“I will still be working with youths in different programs but in a different capacity,” he insists.
His new job will have him conducting home visits, counselling and speaking to congregation members and hosting pray services on Sundays.
He was born in Toronto after his parents emigrated here from Barbados.
Long Branch parent Sandy Donald said Reid was able to provide guidance to his son during a rough time.
“He has helped my son, who considers him a friend,” Donald said. “Jonathan has helped many teens with issues in the community.”
Another young man, named Bernard, described Reid as ‘an honest officer who has helped him in times of trouble.’
Reid has spoken to students at many South Etobicoke schools as a policeman and his name gets passed around by students.
Reid advises students who want to become police officers to stay in school and get a high school diploma, stay out of crime and know what they want in the long-term and go for it.