Churches need to be a welcoming and peaceful environment because they serve as places of refuge, healing, and spiritual growth. A welcoming atmosphere ensures that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, feels accepted and valued as part of the community. How can churches create a peaceful environment in the sense of implementing safety and security practices? What are the challenges for smaller churches with less resources to form, train and equip a small group of volunteers?
I am often asked by smaller churches to present an argument against having church safety and security team policies, procedures and training with fewer and broader guidelines. Conversely, insurance companies ask me to qualify why these same practices are needed. Finally, families attending church services have an assumption that the organization hosting worship services already has a safety and security plan in place. What is considered reasonable regarding today’s increased threats and attacks on these soft targets? Is a small church less likely to experience an incident than a big church?
I would argue that small churches are more vulnerable and more likely to be targeted by bad actors because they are often under-resourced, making them easier targets. Many small congregations lack the funds for robust security systems, professional staff, or regular training, which can leave them ill-prepared to handle potential threats. According to the Center for Hometown Security, smaller churches are often less likely to have formal safety measures in place, such as surveillance cameras or trained personnel, due to budget constraints. Additionally, the Faith-Based Security Network points out that smaller faith communities may be more susceptible to opportunistic attacks as they may not have the same visibility or community partnerships that can deter criminal activity.1 Without adequate resources, these churches may struggle to implement the necessary safeguards to protect their congregations, making them more attractive targets for those seeking to exploit vulnerabilities.
Moreover, smaller churches are less likely to have dedicated security teams or trained personnel, relying more on volunteers who may not have the experience needed to manage critical situations. For instance, a study revealed that many churches lack intentional security plans or resources, with smaller congregations facing even more significant hurdles due to limited funding and fewer trained staff.2 This leaves them at a heightened risk, as they are less likely to employ advanced security measures like armed personnel, surveillance, or emergency response planning, as discussed by SaferWatch in a recent published article “Keeping the Faith Safely: Security Measures for Churches.”.3
Lifeway Research published an article indicating 81% of Protestant pastors said their church has some type of security measure in place when they gather for worship, with the majority of churches having an intentional plan for an active shooter situation.4
By investing in security planning, even under-resourced churches can mitigate some risks. This may involve applying for government grants or collaborating with local authorities to develop appropriate safety protocols, see churchsecuritysolutions.org for more information.
Arguments For Fewer and Broader Guidelines
Unwilling or naïve leadership will often pose similar arguments to the ones presented below. What they “forget” to acknowledge are their willing approvals for costly expenditures and resources for children’s play structures (thousands of dollars) or marketing fliers, fellowship meals, etc.
- Flexibility:
- Smaller churches often have limited resources and personnel. Fewer and broader guidelines allow them to adapt security measures to their specific needs and capabilities without being overwhelmed by rigid protocols.
- Cost-Effective:
- Comprehensive training programs and detailed policies can be expensive. Broader guidelines can reduce costs while still providing a basic framework for safety and security.
- Simplicity:
- Simpler guidelines are easier to understand and implement, which can be helpful for smaller congregations that may not have access to professional security expertise.
- Volunteer Engagement:
Dangers of Choosing Fewer and Broader Guidelines
- Inadequate Preparedness:
- Broader guidelines may not provide sufficient detail to prepare the team for specific threats, leading to inadequate responses during emergencies.
- Increased Liability:
- Without detailed policies and thorough training, churches may face increased liability if an incident occurs, and it is found that the security measures were insufficient.
- Lack of Consistency:
- Broader guidelines can lead to inconsistent implementation of security measures, which may compromise the overall safety of the congregation.
- Regulatory Compliance:
Reasonable Measures for Today’s Threats
Given the increased threats and attacks on soft targets like churches, it is reasonable to implement a balanced approach that includes:
- Basic Training:
- Ensure all safety team members receive basic training in emergency response, threat recognition, and de-escalation techniques.
- Regular Drills:
- Conduct regular emergency drills to prepare the team and congregation for various scenarios, such as active assailant situations and medical emergencies.
- Clear Communication:
- Establish clear communication protocols for reporting and responding to threats. This includes having a designated point of contact for security concerns.
- Partnerships with Law Enforcement:
- Collaborate with local law enforcement to enhance security measures and receive additional training and support.
- Risk Assessment:
- Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and update security measures accordingly.
By balancing flexibility with essential training and clear guidelines, smaller churches can effectively enhance their security while managing their resources efficiently. For an affordable solution, visit my website at Shop – Kearnan Consulting Group, LLC.
Sources
1 FBSN – Faith Based Security Network (fbsnamerica.com)
2 Improving Church Security: Options for a Safe Worship Environment – RISK STRATEGY GROUP
3 Keeping the Faith Safely: Security Measures for Churches (saferwatchapp.com)
4 Planning and Armed Congregants Top Church Security Measures – Lifeway Research
5 OSH Act of 1970 | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
