They're not roles you'd think would go hand in hand. But for dad-of-three Eric O'Sullivan, both positions couldn't suit him better, as they help him serve all the needs of his communities.
By day, he works with the Kilkenny Road Policing Unit to protect drivers and other members of the public from harm. And while off-duty, he serves his parishioners' more spiritual needs through charity work with the homeless and those struggling to make ends meet.
Eric was ordained in a ceremony at Waterford Cathedral over the weekend, where he was proudly supported by his wife Eileen, his children and his Garda colleagues. The holy man was born and raised in Waterford city, but currently lives in the Newtown Parish near the county border.
The local Garda Facebook page marked his big day in a sweet post on social media, sharing snaps of him alongside his family and the Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Phonsie Cullinan.
When he's not serving the public with Gardaí, Eric's new role will have him mainly doing charity work with the homeless and struggling families.
While priests and deacons are both ordained ministers, deacons have slightly different responsibilities and cannot perform services like mass or confessions. They can however do general blessings, baptisms, marriages and funeral rites.
Eric has been studying for the past four years to become a deacon, which has involved learning theology at the Maynooth Pontifical University, visiting a centre in Cork for pastoral formation and further lectures on Zoom throughout the week.
It was a tiring workload, balanced alongside his family life and full-on role with An Garda Síochána - but for Eric, it was more than worth it.
The Waterford man also runs a social media page sharing news about catholic events and activities in his home county.
On the day of his ordination, he shared a sweet post thanking all his friends and loved ones for their support leading up to the ceremony, adding: "So many people to thank and each encounter however brief made a difference.
"It was a wonderful day and sincere thanks to Bishop Cullinan, my wife Eileen and the children, Fr. Eanna Condon, parish preist Fr. Garrett, Deacon Brendan Gallagher, all the clergy of the Diocese, parish and Garda work colleagues and other deacons. Blessings on you all. May we all serve others with the love and compassion of Christ to all those we encounter. Amen. Thanks Deacon Eric."