In recent weeks Christian churches in the U.S. have experienced a marked increase in hostilities such as arson, social media threats, online hacking, physical threats as well vandalism on a profound scale. Historic churches have been targeted in Washington, DC, larger churches in megacities have faced cybercrimes, and smaller churches have been vandalized in rural areas. Here are just a few recent news reports:
Florida Church Statue Beheaded
Virginia Church Pastor Attacked
Fairfax County Church Stabbing Incident
Church Attacks Explode
Church Attacked in CA and FL Arsons
CEN National Safety Security Officer Darryl Walker says: “CEN is grateful for the new Cybersecurity and Infrastructure (CISA) Faith-based Website which provides access to information that supports efforts to secure churches or ministry gatherings whether large or small. In addition, the website contains a self-assessment tool that is designed for individuals as well as security teams with little or no experience to take the first step in knowing their risks and capabilities to develop customized security plans even in the midst of escalating civil unrest.”
DHS CISA Assistant Director Brian Harrell reminded faith leaders today in the House of worship website announcement that CISA also maintains regional offices with Protective Service Advisers (PSA) who can assist in enhancing security at houses of worship and related facilities through assessments, exercises, training, and other tangible capabilities.” Access: CISA Catalog.
Applauding DHS’s website resource CEN’s Founder and President Mary Marr said: “Given the escalation in attacks on churches CEN was appointed by Acting Secretary Chad Wolf to provide recommendations on Preventing Targeted Violence Against Faith Communities. This announcement today is a tangible step DHS CISA has taken, subsequent to our committee findings, in recognizing and addressing the need for those with the responsibility to secure their church, ministry facility, including small group gatherings to be able to access basic resources and connect with their State or local PSA to receive help with assessing their unique risks, developing security plans, and timely actionable information related to securing their facilities ongoing.”
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