If you’d like to be interviewed to share best practices of your own church security/safety team, contact SemperVerus by emailing staytrue@semperverus.com.
SemperVerus interviewed Simon Osamoh, host of the podcast, Who I Became and founder of Kingswood Security Consulting and the Worship Security Academy, offering proactive safety solutions & innovative security risk management.
[ Read the SemperVerus article, A Prayer for Church Security Team Members ]
How important is it for churches of any size to have a volunteer security/safety team?
In the past decade, crime has significantly impacted nonprofits, including houses of worship. Once considered safe havens, churches now find themselves confronting challenges such as mass shootings, embezzlement, child misconduct, and other criminal activities. These incidents highlight the brokenness of our world and emphasize the necessity of preparation.
[ Read the SemperVerus article, Chart: The Spectrum of Potential Threat Personas in Self-Defense and Church Security ]
Tragic events like the 2017 Sutherland Springs, Texas, mass shooting and the Charleston AME Church shooting remind us that it’s not a matter of “if” but “when” a crisis may arise. Churches must ask themselves: What is our pre-planned response to emergencies? This is where a security ministry proves invaluable. It provides a framework for handling medical emergencies, disturbances, lost children, and even natural disasters with a coordinated plan.
[ Read the SemperVerus article, Church Shooting Analysis Reports ]
However, forming a security team shouldn’t focus solely on active shooter scenarios or the presence of firearms. Statistically, you’re more likely to need team members trained in providing first aid, supporting someone facing a personal crisis, or de-escalating situations involving mental health challenges.
[ Read the SemperVerus article, Gentle Response De-Escalation Training for Church Security Teams ]
The role of a security ministry extends beyond protection; it’s a ministry of care and preparation, ensuring that all who enter the church feel safe and supported. Regardless of size, every church benefits from having a dedicated team to manage security and safety, cultivating an environment where worship can flourish without fear.
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The complex topic of armed citizens in active violence incidents is discussed in the video below by a panel of law enforcement and emergency response experts on the vodcast YouTube Channel of the National Center for Integrated Emergency Response (NCIER).
[ Read the SemperVerus article,