Recent mass shootings in houses of worship have religious leaders around the country asking the question, how should we protect our congregations? Welcoming, peaceful, and open places are now vulnerable. What should be done? In a recent article on our website, Patrick V Fiel Sr gives some answers. While he acknowledges there’s no cookie-cutter solution because worship structures differ in size, design, age and location. A church in Los Angeles will have much different needs than a church in rural Kentucky.
A Security Assessment
An experienced consultant should be enlisted to look over the worship center and the members form a security committee. Do you have an emergency plan? Is it up to date? Do you have security technology such as cameras, communication and notification systems?
Security Personnel
Mr. Fiel is not in favor of members carrying weapons, but instead suggests obtaining an agreement with local law enforcement to have an officer assigned during all service hours, or hiring off-duty police officers.
Of course for those with access to a security guard company in Los Angeles, the best solution is found with their personnel.
Other Options for Rural Places of Worship
While this advice would be the ideal, given the fact that the average congregation size in the USA is seventy and many are rural, Fiel’s advice may not be practical in every instance. However, security companies may be willing to do training for a local congregation and help them seek solutions that fit their needs in their rural area.
Don’t Procrastinate
It’s important not to procrastinate on the security issue. I am sure those congregations that have suffered these heartbreaking losses are asking why they did not act sooner. Could they have prevented the murder of their members? Contact a security guard company or your local law enforcement agency for more information.
