Throughout history, people have looked to churches as places for protection from harm. Yet in today’s world, the complexities of modern security threats require a proactive approach to ensure the safety of congregants and property. This requires thoughtful planning and often calls for professional support.
The Church Law Center of California is proud to collaborate with Systematic Inquiry Group, a trusted security consultancy that helps churches prevent and prepare for a wide range of modern threats. Together, we’re equipping faith communities to protect staff and worshippers, safeguard their finances, and comply with the law.
Here are ten key areas of risk every church should consider:
- Cybersecurity Breaches
Many churches store sensitive data including financial records, donor lists, and personal identifying information (PII) of members, making them a target for phishing or cyberattacks. A data breach could result in damages including identity theft, financial loss, and property title fraud in addition to loss of trust among the congregation and legal liability of the church. - Trespassing and Vandalism
From graffiti to break-ins, churches are frequent targets for property crimes and hate-motivated vandalism. Even when the building is empty, the risks remain. - Preparedness Compliance
As of July 1, 2024, California churches must comply with SB 553, which requires a workplace violence prevention plan and annual training for all employees. Noncompliance can result in steep fines exceeding $10,000 and increased legal vulnerability. - Theft and Fraud
Churches are frequent targets for various types of theft, including check and payroll fraud, burglary, internal theft, and real estate title fraud. Audits and security procedures can protect both finances and trust. - Access Control
Securing the perimeter, entry points and sensitive areas with appropriate barriers, locks, lighting, and surveillance is critical for churches to prevent unauthorized access. Poor access control can leave churches vulnerable to break-ins, theft, or even violent crimes, putting both people and property at risk. Inadequate access control can also lead to liability issues if preventable incidents occur due to negligence. - Lawsuit Prevention
Accessibility violations via ADA, employment disputes, or confrontations with political or religious activists can all lead churches to become entangled in lawsuits. Legal battles can disrupt operations, create negative public attention, and lead to long-term consequences for the church’s standing in the community. - Emergency Preparedness
Natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other crises can strike at any time. Failing to have adequate emergency plans in place can increase the severity and likelihood of injury, loss of life, and facility damage during an emergency. Additionally, the lack of a clear response plan could lead to legal liabilities and a loss of confidence in the church’s ability to protect its community. - Internal Conflicts and Domestic Violence
Disputes among congregation members or domestic issues brought into the church can escalate into violence. This presents a potential significant legal liability for any negligent or improper handling of such conflicts in the church’s response. - Child Safety and Abuse Prevention
Churches are responsible for protecting minors from both external threats such as abduction and internal risks including misconduct by staff or volunteers. Any incident involving child abuse or neglect can have devastating consequences for the victims, their families, and the church’s reputation in the community. - Active Assailant Threats
The primary goal of an active assailant is to inflict as much harm as possible in a short period before security or law enforcement intervenes. With the rise in violent attacks at places of worship, churches must prepare for such potential events, which can involve firearms, knives, explosives, or even vehicles used as weapons.
Create a Safer Future, Starting Now
At the Church Law Center, we help churches navigate California’s complex legal landscape with confidence and integrity. Systematic Inquiry Group offers the expertise churches need to tackle the wide range of security challenges. With expert guidance, your church can become a safe and welcoming environment where congregants are protected and your church mission continues to flourish.
