Why Church Security is Imperative

watchman on the wall, scanning the horizon and calling others to take their post.

From Open Doors to Hardened Plans
Why Church Security Isn’t Optional Anymore

Sanctuaries are just that… until they aren’t.

On any given Sunday, doors are open, hands are extended, and hearts are prepared for worship.  But in rare and sobering moments, those same open doors become points of vulnerability.  Whether it’s an active shooter, a domestic dispute that spills into sacred space, or a medical emergency in the pews, the reality is clear: a realistic and actionable church security plan is no longer optional.

Security today isn’t about suspicion or fear.  It’s become a sadly unique facet of church stewardship.

Too often, church leaders assume they’re covered.  There may be a few cameras and a volunteer or two who’ll “keep an eye out.”  Maybe even a loosely discussed plan that surfaces now and then in conversation.

But hope isn’t a strategy.

When the unthinkable becomes reality

In September of ’25, a deeply troubling example of just how badly things can turn in the wrong direction unfolded at a church in Michigan – one that already had a safety and security plan in place.  Yet, they didn’t anticipate the tactics or level of hatred wielded by Tom Sanford.

Familiar with the church’s routine of locking its front doors during services, Sanford drove his truck right through the entrance.  He arrived with weapons, and gasoline.  He was prepared.  What followed was chaos: gunfire, fire, and five lives forever changed, including his own.

His attack wasn’t random; it was intentional.

And it underscores a difficult truth: attackers often study their targets.

Numbers tell a story we can’t ignore

Attacks on churches and religious institutions in the US have reached record highs in recent years, averaging over 39 incidents per month in 2023.  Hostility against churches has risen dramatically, with over 430 incidents documented in 2023, more than double the number in 2022 and an 800% increase since 2018.

In 2024, according the Family Research Council, church violence and lethal attacks continued to rise.  Violent incidents occurred in every month at an average of 35, with 49 church attacks happening June of that year.  Data shows that Pennsylvania is second only to California in the concentration of attacks.

Trends show that there’s a definite increase in severity: gun-related incidents more than doubled from 12 in 2023 to 28 in 2024.

Over the past 25 years, there have been nearly 380 violent, often deadly, incidents at US religious institutions, with violence not confined to any specific type of area.

Why houses of worship are vulnerable

Churches are uniquely exposed, not because they’re weak, but because they’re welcoming.  Many have open-door policies, predictable schedules, limited security resources and a culture rooted in trust and peace.  These are strengths; yet, without preparation, they can also become glaring vulnerabilities.

Security Is ministry

This is where the conversation needs to shift.  Church security isn’t about turning sanctuaries into fortresses.  It’s about creating an environment where people can worship freely, without fear.  It’s an extension of care, and a form of shepherding.

Church safety and security is a ministry.

Just as we rely on gifted individuals for teaching, worship, or pastoral care, there are those uniquely equipped to serve in safety roles:  these include medical professionals, law enforcement and military veterans, and observant, steady, and service-minded individuals.  These are the people who, ideally, can form the backbone of an effective Church Safety & Security Team.

What preparedness really looks like

A meaningful security plan goes far beyond locked doors.  It includes:

• Risk assessments and vulnerability evaluations

• Clear emergency response protocols

• Thoughtful access control strategies

• Surveillance systems used effectively

• Trained volunteers who know their roles

And perhaps most importantly:  a shared awareness across the entire congregation.  Because in a moment of crisis, confusion is the enemy.

More than physical protection

True security addresses more than physical threats.  It includes emotional safety, social awareness and situational preparedness.

A well-developed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) provides clear, step-by-step guidance for everything from medical incidents to security threats. It transforms uncertainty into action.

A foundation for growth

When people feel safe, they come.  They worship.  They serve.  They give.
And they freely invite others.

Security doesn’t hinder ministry – it enables it.  A safe environment creates the conditions where faith can flourish without distraction.

The first step: ownership

Every church needs a champion: someone who sees the responsibility clearly and refuses to settle for half-measures.  Someone willing to lead, organize, and build a culture of preparedness.  Perhaps that’s you, or someone you know.  One thing’s for sure: if that person has expressed interest in serving your church in this fashion, it’s time to talk with them about it.

Because those who intend harm are often fully committed.  It’s our responsibility to be equally committed to protecting the flock.

A final thought

Open doors will always be part of a church’s identity.  But in today’s world, those doors must be supported by thoughtful planning, trained people, and a shared commitment to safety.  Not out of fear, but out of love.