SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) — Officials say it’s a sad sign of the times. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday hosted a large group of pastors and clergymen to teach them how to protect their church if an active shooter tried to harm them.
“We need to start thinking about the ‘what ifs?’ It’s important to get their minds stimulated about providing safety and security for the congregation,” said Deputy Yvonne Daniels with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
It’s certainly not unique to this area. In 2014, Andy Avalos walked into Bayshore Baptist church in Bradenton and murdered Pastor Tripp Battle.
In the past few years there have been reports of terrible church crimes around America and around the world. Recently, attackers stormed into a French church and slit the throat of a priest.
“In this environment, we have to be at least aware of the possibilities even if we don’t anticipate them directly,” said Pastor Doug Thomas of First United Methodist Church in Bradenton.
“You hope for the best but you also expect the worst so you can be prepared when it does happen you won’t be caught off guard,” said Pastor Eric Reaves of Gethsemane Missionary Baptist.
During the training, deputies urged pastors to be aware of their surroundings and be watchful over their members and visitors. It’s important to look out for odd behaviors.
“It’s sad that we have to look at the members of our church in that light,” said Deputy Daniels.
“We want to receive everybody, no matter how you look, what you appear to look like, we don’t stereotype, we receive everybody in, but there are some things we look for,” said Reaves.
Many safety measures were discussed during the meeting-
Staff should never be allowed to work alone. Always makes sure there are at least two employees present at all times.
Establish a method to alert others in the office if you’re in danger.
Keep all church doors locked except when in use, and even then limit access points as much as possible.
Churches should have meetings with elders and staff to establish safety protocols.
And if a violent act unfortunately occurs, church leaders should immediately call 911. If there is an opportunity to keep the invader out by locking the doors, then do so.
If possible, remove the congregation from the building quickly.
“As a shepherd, I have the obligation to look after my sheep and take care or make sure their well being is taken care of,” said Reaves.
But officials say local church members should not be fearful.
“I don’t think you should be afraid, you should be aware,” said Deputy Daniels.
“[People] should not be scared. First and foremost- God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and of a sound mind. We should not be afraid but we also should be aware of what’s going on,” said Reaves.Hear more about what the clergy learned tonight on News Channel 8 at 5.