In today’s day and age, even churches are a target for criminals. In fact, criminals view most faith-based organizations as an easy target because of the open and welcoming environment they foster – easy to get in and out. They know that more than ever, church facilities contain valuable, high-tech items such as musical instruments and multimedia equipment. Many churches even have a retail presence with valuable merchandise, and criminals know that many of these high-value assets often reside in a concentrated area.

Because of this, safety and security has rightly become a major concern for churches across the country. Also driving this focus on security is the fact that most churches have evolved beyond a single-use facility. Indeed, church facilities are more than just a place where the congregation meets for weekly service. They are now used every day of the week for such things as day care, schools, Bible studies, youth programs, community gathering places, voter polling and more – thus introducing visitors that are not necessarily part of the weekend congregation.

Criminals today are very sophisticated. They "case" a church facility ahead of time, studying habits of use and looking for vulnerabilities. They look for propped-open doors, low roof access, dark or concealed areas. They also know how to circumvent conventional security systems by biding their time and entering through adjacent buildings, dry or concrete walls, roofs and even HVAC systems. Increasingly, this is how criminals are entering their marks (such as church facilities) because they know how to evade the security contacts on the doors and windows.

In addition to the risk of theft or vandalism is the far more serious threat of violence. Remember, the criminal is not always the menacing, shadowy figure who only comes around after dark. He often comes right through the front door, or waits just outside to make his move. Churches need to be prepared for every kind of danger and must always be thinking about ways to better protect their facilities and the people inside.