Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Church Safety and Security Workshop

Saturday, November 1, 9am – 4pm

Community Presbyterian Church, Chester – 220 Main Street, Chester, NJ 07930

Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God.” ~Acts 20:28

A workshop for pastors, elders, teachers, and anyone concerned with their church’s safety and security

This workshop was developed out of a sense of responsibility and not fear, to help provide all with a sense of welcome and peace.

This free event is made possible by your per capita and contributions to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Lunch will be provided.

There will be subject matter that may be difficult for some persons. Keep that in mind when registering, knowing that you can always step out if necessary.

Attendance will be limited to 50 participants.

For more information, contact Steve Shussett at steves@highlandspresbyterynj.org or 610-295-2930.

Safety and security planning and training for churches is vital today.

The “Introduction to Church Safety and Security Workshop” aims to demonstrate and practice key concepts and tools for enhancing safety and security for our churches.  Taking an “all hazards” approach to safety and security, including armed intruders, protects the church as a place of worship and gathering. It strengthens its role as a beacon of resilience and refuge. When churches commit to a culture of preparedness and care, they affirm their commitment to serving their congregation and community in every circumstance, while preserving openness, welcome, and compassion.

This seven-hour workshop is designed to be a “hands-on” experience for churches, including how to protect and prevent against adversarial events from happening, how to minimize damage, and how to respond to and recover from such events. The workshop helps churches develop simple and appropriate safety plans through exercises, handouts, resources, and role-playing. Those attending will leave this workshop with a high-level outline of a safety and security plan for their facility, resources for implementation, and achievable action steps that will improve safety and security while exhibiting hope and welcome.