Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Security Not a New Concept for Churches in the Ozarks

From Missouri

As you would expect, First Baptist will be beefing up security following a weekend shooting, but it's not alone. Some churches already have a plan in place for situations like this.

Rev. Kenneth Chumbley is the rector of Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Springfield. On Monday, along with planning for his next service, he's thinking about security.

"We want people to be able to come to church and to feel safe and secure."

Increased violence is what he describes as soft spaces, like churches, has him concerned.

"So we can be ready," he adds. "So we can be prepared."

It's a message Mark Struckhoff, with the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, shares with leaders across the area. His organization encourages churches to work with police. He says it's necessary, but unfortunate.

"Deep sadness that there is a situation now where churches need to think and think again about their plan."

Rev. Chumbley's church has an emergency system, but he says it needs to be better.


More here-

http://www.ozarksfirst.com/story/security-not-a-new-concept-for-churches-in-the-ozarks/d/story/nfS9hMMqcEeM6DFn0_JVJA

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