As we step into 2025, church safety and security leaders face an ever-evolving landscape of challenges and opportunities. From technological advancements to addressing the rising tensions in society, this year brings a renewed focus on critical areas of improvement. In this article, we’ll explore seven key trends and actionable steps that church leaders should prioritize to ensure their places of worship remain safe havens. Whether it’s embracing new security tools or fostering a culture of preparedness, these insights aim to equip you for the year ahead.
- Enhance Volunteer Screening
Building trustworthy security teams begins with thorough vetting and continuous education for volunteers. The case of Jacob Tarver at the Church at the Epicenter in Texas, where he fabricated a shooting created unnecessary panic, serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of insufficient vetting. Comprehensive background checks, interviews, and ongoing training are critical to prevent similar incidents. Churches should invest in professional vetting services to screen for red flags and ensure that all team members are well-prepared to handle emergencies with professionalism and integrity. Regular training on de-escalation and emergency response fosters both skill and accountability among team members.
- Prioritize Cybersecurity
As churches increasingly adopt digital tools for donations, communications, and record-keeping, they must address the growing threat of cyberattacks. One example involves nonprofits falling victim to ransomware, where sensitive data was compromised due to weak systems. A robust cybersecurity strategy includes investing in firewalls, training staff to recognize phishing attempts, and implementing clear data retention policies. Churches should also regularly audit their systems for vulnerabilities, ensuring compliance with evolving data protection laws. By doing so, churches can safeguard not only their own operations but also the trust of their congregations.
- Embrace Technology for Surveillance and Access Control
The use of technology in church security has grown rapidly, with tools like surveillance and access control systems offering a first line of defense. At Brown Missionary Baptist Church in Mississippi, a combination of surveillance and access control systems has enhanced security while fostering a welcoming environment. However, even the best systems require diligent management an access control system is only effective if doors are not propped open. Churches should utilize grants like the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) to upgrade their systems and provide training for volunteers and staff on how to use these tools effectively.
- Address Behavioral Threats with Proactive Programs
Behavioral threat assessment programs play a vital role in identifying and mitigating potential risks. For example, Brown Missionary Baptist Church responded to a gun threat in 2022 by implementing lockdown procedures and collaborating with law enforcement, ensuring the safety of nearly 200 children onsite. These programs focus on recognizing early warning signs of mental health crises, disputes, or radicalization. Training church staff and volunteers to observe and report concerning behaviors can help de-escalate situations before they become critical. Partnering with local law enforcement and mental health professionals can further enhance a church’s readiness.
- Reinforce Financial Oversight
The 2024 embezzlement case at the Presbytery of Kendall, where over $330,000 was stolen due to lax financial controls, underscores the importance of robust oversight. Dual controls, where at least two individuals oversee financial transactions, are essential to reducing fraud risk. Churches should also conduct annual audits by third-party professionals to identify and address discrepancies. A transparent approach, including sharing audit findings with the congregation, not only ensures financial integrity but also strengthens trust within the church community. This proactive stance can prevent financial misconduct and maintain the organization’s credibility.
- Prepare for Increasing Political and Social Tensions
In an era of heightened polarization, churches must prepare for potential conflicts arising from social or political events. For instance, the growing hostility toward churches, which saw 436 documented incidents in 2023, highlights the need for vigilance. Churches serving as polling stations or engaging in community activism should review and update their emergency plans, incorporating de-escalation techniques and crowd management strategies. Tabletop exercises focusing on realistic scenarios such as protests or disruptions help staff and volunteers respond effectively. These measures not only ensure safety but also reinforce the church’s role as a peaceful, unifying force in the community.
- Foster Community Engagement to Build Resilience
A well-connected congregation is a safer congregation. Engaging members in safety initiatives builds a sense of shared responsibility and vigilance. Westwood Community Church in Excelsior Minnesota exemplifies this approach through its “See Something, Say Something” culture, where greeters, ushers, and parking lot attendants are trained to recognize and report suspicious behavior. Hosting events like first-aid training or town hall meetings on security not only equips members with valuable skills but also strengthens communal bonds. By fostering collaboration between the congregation, local organizations, and law enforcement, churches can create a proactive and resilient environment.
What next?
The challenges of 2025 require church safety and security leaders to embrace a multifaceted approach to preparedness. By prioritizing volunteer training, adopting advanced technology, addressing behavioral threats, and fostering financial integrity, churches can build a foundation of trust and resilience. Engaging with the congregation and community further enhances this mission, ensuring that churches remain sanctuaries of safety and spiritual growth. As we move forward, let these priorities guide us in protecting the sacred spaces that bring people together in faith and fellowship.
About the author
Simon Osamoh serves as the editor of Worship Security and is nationally recognized for his work in safeguarding houses of worship. He began his career in England, spending 14 years as a detective specializing in serious and organized crime before leading Counter Terrorism at the Mall of America in Minnesota. Simon founded Kingswood Security Consulting and the Worship Security Academy, providing security solutions to houses of worship and nonprofits. He is the author of two Amazon bestselling books and the host of the Church Security Accelerator Podcast. For submissions or topic ideas, reach out to Simon at sosamoh@worshipfacility.com.
