Churches in America Face Perilous Times

Why Churches in America Face Perilous Times Ahead

For decades, every church across the country was considered a sacred place to worship and parishioners were safe from all harm and danger. As a whole, people had reverence for their local churches, and people of all ages would show respect by being on their best behavior on church property. This reverence was taught throughout each race and nationality and was handed down from one generation to the next. Churches could leave their doors open from sunrise to sunset to allow everyone and anyone that special devotion time with God without any harm or repercussion to their staff and volunteers.

Sadly, those days are a thing of the past. As a matter of fact, we have seen amazing spikes of violence and murder in churches. In today’s world, criminals view churches as easy targets because they have very little or no security to protect their property which may include expensive items such as high-end sound equipment, an assortment of musical instruments, and multiple televisions. Robbery is not the only crime plaguing churches. Criminals are now walking into churches and committing violent crimes such as physical assault, sexual assault, and even murder. Churches in America today are also becoming targets for protesters , predators , and often terrorists . It is imperative for church leadership to realize that times have changed, and the risk of not having security in place could place people’s lives in jeopardy.

The leadership team has to make preparations for the possible threats that could come from any area of the church. Next, the leaders must be aware of the weekly church activities and have dedicated trained staff and volunteers ready to assist if needed. It would be foolish to believe all churches have the same safety concerns. The majority of churches have less than 500 members in attendance at a time. Therefore, leadership might know everyone in the congregation. Megachurches, however, are now on the rise and have 20,000, 30,000 and even 40,000 plus in weekly attendance. Thus, leaders must be pro-active and have security protocols already established before a threat against the church building, or even worse, a member occurs.

There are some churches that have security alarms to protect against burglaries and thefts; and some take the threat one step further and install surveillance cameras to see all activity both inside and outside the building. Some people might find it hard to believe that some churches even hire their own members who are current or former police officers; they also hire former military trained officers as security guards who carry guns to protect the people.

Here is a list of possible criminal activities in the church;

  • Vandalism and arson
  • Theft
  • Hate crimes
  • Physical violence
  • Sexual abuse

When leaders’ eyes are open to the possible threats against the church, changes will occur. The leadership team will seek guidance from security alarm companies to protect both the people and property . Take heed churches because we are living in perilous times!! At ATP many of our clients are churches , temples , synagogues and mosques . We can provide fire alarms , security , fire sprinklers and security cameras . Call now and take advantage of our complimentary security survey . This is real life; you need a real security company. ATP Alarms is American Total Protection.

Protect Your Westport CT Home During Renovations
By Rence Coassin December 8, 2025
Home renovations bring new contractors, subcontractors, and workers into your house—and with that comes new risks. Whether you hire a general contractor or manage the trades yourself, here’s how to keep your home safe during a renovation.
Car Thief
By Rence Coassin November 21, 2025
Learn 5 proven home security tips to reduce car theft in Fairfield and Westport, Connecticut — from lighting upgrades to smart cameras and alarm monitoring.
Resideo ProSeries Alarm System
By Rence Coassin November 4, 2025
Living in a home by herself, Sam wanted more peace of mind when home alone. In the past, she either lived in an apartment or with roommates.
Safe Homes in Fairfield CT
By Rence Coassin October 23, 2025
Keep your Fairfield home safe this winter with tips on detectors, lighting, cameras & alarms from American Total Protection. Free safety consultation.
Security System Upgrade
By Rence Coassin September 25, 2025
Achievement First Amistad High School takes the security of its facility and students seriously. The school conducts frequent security system inspections.
Old road in Lyme, CT
By Rence Coassin June 12, 2025
Customer service matters. When choosing a service provider for your home or business, it is important to understand the providers’ customer service capabilities. Does the company have a support team? Do they have an on-call technician if there is an emergency? Does the company make paying the bill easy? How hard is it to schedule service? We all want to support local and small companies. However, it is important that your local business can service your account in an efficient manner.
Fairfield CT Home Alarm System Upgrade: A Modern Retrofit
By Rence Coassin May 9, 2025
Homeowners choose to buy an alarm system for a variety of reasons—theft, robbery, life safety (Smokes and Carbons, etc.). Depending on the wants, circumstances, and the needs of the customer, ATP designs a custom solution. If a homeowner or business has an existing alarm, American Total Protection does its best to utilize the working devices and infrastructure. In many cases, we can use everything. However, some times the devices are too old (smoke detectors and CO’s have a recommended replacement date) or wireless devices can be encrypted. ATP has the knowledge and experience to design systems that utilize existing components where applicable in order to control cost.
Legacy Law Partners
By Rence Coassin March 25, 2025
By installing a cloud-hosted access control system, and an alarm system that can be remotely controlled, Legacy Law Partners is able to lean on ATP for remote support. The new access control system can be managed from any PC or smartphone. Meaning, if the law firm wants to unlock a door, adjust a schedule, or add/erase a user, ATP can assist with the changes if needed.
Modern Residential Security System Upgrade in Fairfield CT
February 25, 2025
Homeowners often have hardwired high-voltage local smoke detectors in their home. These smoke detectors are not monitored but are “local”. Meaning, if the smoke detector goes off, it will make noise but not call anyone. American Total Protection provides monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Meaning, if they go off, the homeowner and authorities will get a phone call.
Friends Center for Children Arial View
January 16, 2025
The Friends Center for Children takes the safety of its children, parents, and employees extremely seriously. Through partnership with the general contractor and the Friends Center staff, ATP developed a security plan that considered unique building challenges and budget.