Security Planning for Holy Places

The first comprehensive roadmap specifically designed for religious organizations to protect their congregants and facilities. The book is structured as a practical, step-by-step guide for leadership across all faiths—including churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples—as well as associated schools and camps.

The book moves beyond general security advice to address the unique vulnerabilities of religious sites. The book details how to build a professional security plan from the ground up, covering:

Threat Identification: Analyzing the "overall threat," including the types of weapons used by intruders and the psychological profile of potential attackers. Layered Defense: Implementing both perimeter security (parking lots and gates) and inside security (sanctuaries and offices). Personnel Management: Navigating the complex choice between hiring professional guards, using armed vs. unarmed volunteers, and the legal implications of gun laws. Technology Integration: Using modern tools and surveillance to strengthen protection without compromising the welcoming nature of a "holy place." Actionable Tools: Providing checklists and guidance on forming security committees so that organizations can take immediate action.

The significance of this work lies in the delicate balance it strikes between safety and sanctity. Addressing Rising Vulnerability: The book acknowledges that the risk to houses of worship has never been greater due to terrorism, hate crimes, and mental health crises. Holy places are often "soft targets" because of their open-door policies. Professionalizing Volunteer Efforts: Many religious sites rely on well-meaning volunteers. This book is vital because it provides these individuals with professional-grade protocols, ensuring their efforts are effective rather than just well-intentioned. Preserving the Mission: Security Planning for Holy Places emphasizes that security should not turn a house of worship into a fortress. The importance of the book is in showing how to stay "open and welcoming" while simultaneously being "hardened and prepared." Financial and Legal Guidance: By including information on how to get financial help in different countries for security and navigating mental health and gun laws, Security Planning for Holy Places provides a resource for the administrative and legal challenges that often stall security planning.

Written by a former senior US Defense Department official, Security Planning for Holy Places brings "Pentagon-level" strategic thinking to local communities, making high-level security expertise accessible to clergy and lay leaders who may have no prior tactical experience.