Join now to access this member-only content
Become a Member
Already a member? Log in for full access.
Update. On Sunday, May 15, 2022, a shooting took place at a Taiwanese church in Southern California. Find details about the shooting on Christianity Today. This article offers four possible ways for churches to reduce the risk of such incidents taking place in their own congregations.
The 2017 shootings at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, which left 26 dead and several others injured, have once again focused attention on church safety, with many church leaders asking what steps they should implement to protect their congregations.
Most churches in America are safe places. While incidents of shootings on church property are shocking, they are rare. But "open access" policies of most churches make them susceptible to violent acts. While such acts cannot be completely prevented, there are steps church leaders can take to reduce the risk. Let's review some of them. ...
Related ResourcesVisit Store
Protecting Your Church from Crime and Violence
Assess the security of your church and learn how to prevent crime.
Confronting Gun Violence at Church
Help your congregation feel secure in your house of worship.
Best Practices for Technology Usage
Establish policies and best practices to govern the use of technology for church staff.
Creating a Disaster Preparation and Response Plan
Learn the steps you can take now so you are ready to respond if a crisis unfolds.
