Chaplaincy budget impacted by coronavirus mandates

COLFAX — Many events have been canceled this year and the consequences have been near and far-reaching.

The cancelation of United Methodists Women’s annual potato bar meant less spud consumption and less funding for the Whitman County Chaplaincy.

“I have to raise my own funds,” Chaplain Ron McMurray said, adding state law forbids public funds from being used to pay chaplains.

The chaplain’s annual budget is $35,000-$37,000.

McMurray’s job is supporting the emotional and mental well-being of victims of trauma and loss, law enforcement, fire fighters and EMS. He has been the full-time chaplain s...