In an emergency, clarity saves time—and can save lives. This article highlights the importance of defining simple roles in advance: who calls 911, who meets first responders, and who communicates with the congregation.
Part of the Grand Canyon Synod’s 2026 security series, this reflection offers a practical step congregations can take to respond more calmly and effectively when it matters most.
Read MoreA simple walk-through of your building and grounds is one of the easiest and most effective steps a congregation can take toward safety and preparedness. By paying attention to lighting, entrances, exits, and visibility, congregations can identify small changes that make a big difference.
This article offers practical guidance for conducting a 30–45 minute walk-through and invites congregations to take this next step as part of the Grand Canyon Synod’s 2026 security and preparedness series.
Read MoreBuilding relationships with local law enforcement, fire departments, and EMS is one of the most important steps a congregation can take toward preparedness. When first responders already know your building and leadership, they can respond more quickly and effectively in an emergency.
This article offers simple, practical ways to begin those relationships and invites congregations to take a first step as part of the Grand Canyon Synod’s ongoing 2026 security and preparedness series.
Read MoreThe next step in the Grand Canyon Synod’s 2026 Congregational Security & Preparedness series begins with a simple action: start the conversation. Congregation councils can take an important first step by placing security and preparedness on a meeting agenda and discussing how their church cares for the safety of staff, volunteers, and worshipers.
This article offers guidance on how councils can begin that conversation and points congregations to the synod’s Congregational Security & Preparedness Resources page as a starting place for practical tools and next steps.
Read MoreThe Safe Communities Coalition will host a Zoom workshop on March 2 at 12:00 p.m. (Arizona) featuring Praveen Sinha of Equality Labs. This interactive training will equip clergy and congregational leaders with practical tools to prevent doxxing, strengthen online security, and respond to digital threats during a time of heightened polarization. Registration is required—sign up now to receive the Zoom link.
Read MoreThe ELCA resource Protecting Employees – Security Procedures in the Workplace offers congregations a clear, church-specific starting point for thinking about safety and preparedness. Grounded in care rather than fear, it encourages proactive planning that reduces risk and supports staff, volunteers, and worshipers.
This article highlights the document’s key guidance for leadership, volunteers, and building safety as part of the Grand Canyon Synod’s year-long series on congregational security and preparedness.
Read MoreSecurity planning is not about fear—it is a ministry of care. In 2026, the Grand Canyon Synod is launching a year-long series on congregational security, grounded in theology, stewardship, and practical wisdom.
This opening reflection frames security as an expression of faithful welcome and invites congregations to explore the synod’s new Congregational Security & Preparedness Resources page as we move through the year together.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod is developing a new Congregational Security & Preparedness resource page under our Congregation Resources section, at the request of Synod Vice President Mark Myers. This evolving hub will gather practical tools from ELCA churchwide resources, insurers like Brotherhood Mutual and Church Mutual, and federal partners such as the FBI to help congregations review building security, plan for emergencies, and respond wisely to threats or concerning behavior.
Councils, staff, ushers, and safety teams are encouraged to use these materials in conversation with local law enforcement, insurers, and legal counsel, taking simple first steps now while we continue to add and update resources.
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