Boise, Idaho – Churchgoers in Boise, Idaho, are taking extra precautions by arming themselves and engaging in ‘warrior training’ before attending weekly services due to a rise in violent attacks nationwide.
Amid this surge in violent incidents at places of worship, Sheepdog Church Security, founded by Kris Moloney in 2014, has seen a significant increase in parishioners seeking training for safety and security teams.
Initially starting as a small company, Moloney’s background in the military and law enforcement led him to establish a safety team at his own Minnesota church before expanding his services nationwide and training over 6,000 individuals.
The emphasis on safety and security doesn’t compromise the welcoming atmosphere of churches, as those who carry firearms do so discreetly to ensure the safety of congregants without causing alarm.
Moloney’s training programs have become more popular, particularly as religious institutions face a growing number of threats and incidents of violence nationwide.
The rise in church attacks has prompted an increase in churches implementing security training for their pastors and members, with some organizations even hosting active shooter training sessions and security conferences.
In response to these escalating security concerns, there has been a surge in volunteer security teams across the US, particularly in states like Idaho where residents are reacting to the growing threats against churches.
While there is no standardized approach to volunteer security teams, experts like Moloney provide guidance on best practices adapted from law enforcement procedures to suit the unique security needs of churches.
As churches grapple with the balance between maintaining a sense of peace and ensuring safety, individuals like Keith Graves are instrumental in empowering congregations with security knowledge through Christian Warrior Training programs.
Graves emphasizes the importance of preparedness and utilizing available tools to protect oneself, reminding us that faith doesn’t preclude the need for practical security measures in an increasingly volatile world.