Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries—safe havens where people gather for reflection, community, and spiritual growth. Unfortunately, in recent years, churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples have increasingly become targets for acts of violence, including active shooter incidents.
A Troubling Trend
According to FBI data, there were 23 active shooter attacks on places of worship between 2000 and 2022, resulting in over 100 deaths and 140 injuries. Many of these attacks occurred during services or religious holidays, when attendance is at its highest.
A 2023 report by the Department of Homeland Security also highlighted that faith-based organizations remain highly vulnerable due to open-door policies and limited security preparedness. Additionally, a 2024 Pew Research Center survey found that 63% of regular worship attendees now express concern about potential violence during services—a 29% increase over the last decade.
These statistics aren’t meant to instill fear—but to highlight the urgent need for preparation.
Preparedness Saves Lives
The A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training Program (Assess, Leave, Impede, Violence, Expose) is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and confidence to respond quickly and effectively when faced with a life-threatening event.
Here’s why this training matters:
- Early recognition of pre-attack indicators can prevent violence
- Clear protocols reduce chaos during emergencies
- Empowered staff and volunteers make faster, more decisive choices
- Congregants gain peace of mind knowing there’s a plan in place
- Better collaboration with local law enforcement leads to safer outcomes
Whether it’s a Sunday service, youth gathering, or holiday event, knowing how to react within the first 10–15 seconds of an incident can mean the difference between life and death.
Faith and Vigilance Can Coexist
A welcoming environment doesn’t mean an unprotected one. Training doesn’t replace faith—it supports it. Communities that invest in preparedness demonstrate care, foresight, and leadership in safeguarding their flock.
As it says in Proverbs 27:12:
“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.”
Now is the time to take action.
Ensure your house of worship is equipped with the tools to protect its members. Schedule a free consultation with an A.L.I.V.E. Certified Instructor to learn how our active shooter survival training can be tailored specifically for your congregation.
Because protecting your people is an act of faith.
About the Author
Michael D. Julian is President of MPS Security & Protection and a 30-plus-year veteran of the security and investigations industry. He served as President of the California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) from 2005 to 2015 and has led executive protection, residential security, and corporate investigations engagements for Fortune 500 principals, high-net-worth families, and public figures across the United States. Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.