Church Security Expert Advises Churches to Prepare Now for the Christmas Holiday Season
by Staff
October 8, 2009
CINCINNATI, Ohio, (christiansunite.com) -- Church leaders know from experience that the Christmas holiday season is one of their busiest times of year."With the significance of the holiday, added church attendance, and things like special programs and events, now is the time for church leaders to ensure that they are prepared for the increased risks that will come their way in a few short months" stated Jeff Hawkins, executive director of the Christian Security Network (CSN) ( www.christiansecuritynetwoork.org).
The Christian Security Network has tracked over 800 crimes against Christian churches so far this year including 28 violent incidents, 1 kidnapping, 1 attempted kidnapping, 76 arsons, and over 500 burglaries resulting in over $20 million in losses.
Hawkins goes on to state, "If church leaders think their congregations are not concerned about these incidents they are misinformed. A recent poll conducted by CSN showed that over 90% of those who attend church had worries about safety when they enter the church. On a regular basis CSN receives calls and e-mails from Christians who are frustrated that their church is not doing more to protect them and their loved ones."
Too often churches are not prepared, even in regular times. With the added risks approaching, now is the time for churches to ensure that they have measures in place to deter crime and deal with emergency situations.
Jeffrey A. Hawkins is available for interviews on this topic. He is a 30-year veteran of law enforcement and security and formerly chief security officer for an international Christian ministry. He regularly consults with churches and denominations and heads an international, inter-denominational security committee. Hawkins is frequently quoted in magazines, newspapers, radio and television.
The Christian Security Network ( www.christiansecuritynetwork.com) is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of security, safety and emergency planning for Christian churches, schools, ministries and missionaries. CSN offers a free weekly e-mail newsletter, conducts on- line webinars, on-site risk assessments, and provides training through its church hosted seminar program. CSN is quickly becoming the primary resource for Christian organizations in the areas of security and emergency planning.
