Boise, Idaho – With a rise in violent attacks on houses of worship across the nation, churchgoers are taking proactive steps to ensure their safety. Sheepdog Church Security, established by Kris Moloney in 2014, offers ‘warrior training’ to volunteers to protect congregations while keeping faith as a focal point. Moloney, a military and law enforcement veteran, started the company after running a safety team at his Minnesota church.
As church attacks reach record highs, interest in security training has surged. Moloney has trained over 6,000 individuals nationwide. The training focuses on maintaining an open and welcoming environment while ensuring the safety and security of attendees. The program includes hands-on drills for emergency situations like active shooters and bomb threats, offering a holistic approach to safety.
Churches are now implementing security training for pastors and congregants in response to the growing threat of violent incidents. Some, like the safety team coordinator at Canyon Springs Christian Church, see the need to adapt law enforcement procedures to meet the unique security needs of religious institutions. Advancements in security measures are necessary as acts of hostility against churches continue to rise.
In light of recent violent incidents, some congregations resist the idea of having security teams, fearing an over-militarized presence. However, Moloney advises starting with non-controversial measures like medical and fire safety to build trust before addressing more serious threats. Others, like Rev. Stephen Cady in Rochester, New York, choose against arming guards or congregants, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the spirit of empathy and reflection within the congregation.
The discussion around church security raises questions about the balance between faith and protection. While some believe in the use of weapons for self-defense, others advocate for relying on faith alone. As tensions rise and threats persist, churches nationwide are grappling with the challenge of ensuring a safe worship environment without compromising their core values. The need for security measures continues to evolve as the landscape of threats against religious institutions shifts.