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.

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.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
March 6, 2024
As monitored carbon detectors are becoming increasingly popular devices for installation in customers' homes, we thought we would assist by discussing the pros and cons of these devices while addressing some of the more commonly asked questions, such as: 1. Do I need a monitored carbon detector if I already have local sounding devices? 2. How many monitored carbon detectors do I need to install in order to protect my family?
Monitored Smoke Detectors
February 28, 2024
While we believe monitored smoke detectors are vital to any security system, what is most important to us is that you find a security system layout that you love and will utilize. If monitored smoke protection is not right for you we completely understand, we just hope this article was helpful in educating you on the topic.
New security system in Connecticut
February 21, 2024
The elephant in the room that no security company would dare put in writing (at least accurately) or discuss prior to an in-home consultation. Is ATP going to cross that line? Yes, and we will be as transparent as possible too in order to save you the hassle of searching all across Google for the answer no one can find.
FAQs About Home Automation Systems
By Rence Coassin March 17, 2022
Home automation systems are becoming popular upgrades for many homeowners. Not only do they offer a level of convenience, but they also increase the functionality of the property. You can even connect them directly to a security camera and monitor your residence from a mobile device. If you're interested in home automation, here's what you should know about this technology and how it can benefit your home. Our Guide to Home Automation Systems outlines the benefits of a proper system.
commercial-alarm-installation-atp-alarms-connecticut
By Rence Coassin February 4, 2022
Fires in commercial spaces can spark without warning and spread quickly throughout the area. Ensuring the safety of your employees and customers is paramount, and proper evacuation requires a comprehensive fire alarm installation. With proper alarms and signals, you can help everyone get to safety and prevent injuries. Below are several parts of this system to help you familiarize yourself with it.
More Posts