Starting the Conversation: Bringing Congregational Security to the Council Table

The 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.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardMarch 4, 2026SecurityComment

Preventing Doxxing and Digital Threats: A Practical Workshop for Faith Leaders

The 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.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Security, Arizona Faith NetworkComment

Security as Stewardship: A Practical ELCA Resource for Churches

The 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.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 10, 2026SecurityComment

Prepared to Welcome: Why Congregational Security Is a Ministry of Care

Security 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.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardJanuary 26, 2026SecurityComment

Prepared to Welcome, Ready to Respond: Synod Gathers Security Tools for Congregations

The 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.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardDecember 2, 2025SecurityComment

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