LEE'S SUMMIT, MO. -
The Missouri Highway Patrol hosted a seminar on security awareness for religious leaders on Sunday. The main point they stress to church security teams is planning.
Church violence has grown over the last 10 years. In 2009 alone, there were 33 deaths at churches across the nation. Now officials want organizations to be proactive.
"We've had situations throughout the country where churches are involved," said Sgt. Bill Lowe with Mo. Highway Patrol. "But, we haven't had anything to present or give good ideas for a security program until now."
According to the National Safety Council, the most common reason for church violence is conflict.
"The vast majority of incidents that get the publicity are the gun situations or domestic violence ones," said Sgt. Lowe.
Troopers want to teach church leaders that self defense is important, as well as having a plan, identifying a threat and minimizing violence.
Byron Whitmore is on his church's security team. He said many are glad to be able to worship in a secure place.
"People in the area may have been out drinking," Whitmore said. "Anyone could come in so you have to be conscious of that."
Sunday's seminar was held at Lee's Summit Community Church. This is the second seminar held in Missouri.
Church violence has grown over the last 10 years. In 2009 alone, there were 33 deaths at churches across the nation. Now officials want organizations to be proactive.
"We've had situations throughout the country where churches are involved," said Sgt. Bill Lowe with Mo. Highway Patrol. "But, we haven't had anything to present or give good ideas for a security program until now."
According to the National Safety Council, the most common reason for church violence is conflict.
"The vast majority of incidents that get the publicity are the gun situations or domestic violence ones," said Sgt. Lowe.
Troopers want to teach church leaders that self defense is important, as well as having a plan, identifying a threat and minimizing violence.
Byron Whitmore is on his church's security team. He said many are glad to be able to worship in a secure place.
"People in the area may have been out drinking," Whitmore said. "Anyone could come in so you have to be conscious of that."
Sunday's seminar was held at Lee's Summit Community Church. This is the second seminar held in Missouri.
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