National Church arming itself with 15 guns for active shooting situations

[Joe Link]

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Church shootings are becoming more common in the U.S. and churches across the country are taking steps to prepare themselves, either through hired security or active shooting training. That added security is no exception for a Fort Wayne church.

Members of Abundant Life Church on Coliseum Blvd. have been mapping out security plans and taking shooting classes. Five or ten years ago they wouldn't have thought it was necessary, but now they believe this type of security is a must.

"I think after the Texas shooting it became very real to all of us that unfortunately this is starting to become more and more prevalent," said head of security Chris Williams.

Twenty-Five people were shot to death by an active shooter in Sutherland, Texas last month. That came two years after nine people were killed in a mass shooting at a Charleston, South Carolina church.

"It's really sad that places that were once viewed as maybe off limits or sacred are now kind of specifically targeted," Williams said. "It kind of scared us all a little bit to what if this were Abundant Life Church, would we have an adequate response?"

The answer to that is now a yes. They're amping up security by arming 15 to 20 members with guns. They've been receiving formal training on proper communications and responses in active shooter situations. The ushers, greeters, nurses and newly formed security team are all briefed on how to protect Abundant Life's members if danger ever arises.

Williams knows many churches won't agree with the new security measures, but says in a 20,000 square foot church with 12 doors and 450 members they have no choice in light of recent events.

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[MadDuner]

It's everyone's job to provide security for themselves and whoever else they can.

It's Law Enforcement's role to show up after the fact and collect forensic evidence that will be used against the perpetrator(s) if and when they get their hands on them. If the churches don't take it upon themselves to protect their flock - nobody else will.

 

[Joe Link]

It's everyone's job to provide security for themselves and whoever else they can.

It's Law Enforcement's role to show up after the fact and collect forensic evidence that will be used against the perpetrator(s) if and when they get their hands on them. If the churches don't take it upon themselves to protect their flock - nobody else will.

Well said. The cops can't protect you.

 

[dangerranger]

Church shooting have always been a problem. But until recently they haven't made national news. Before that they were generally considered domestic problems.
I can think of at least 5 church shootings in my hometown. But most involved counseling sessions and were written off as Domestic Violence. People whispered about them for only a few days, and they were forgotten.

I'm actually glad people are finally taking notice! DR

 

[JOE TRUMP]

There are sheep and there are wolves.....I am the sheepdog