Churches used to be able to handle a crisis or major event on their own. The current scenario is complicated by publicity on social media, a tangle of laws and regulations and the prevalence of many lawsuits against churches. There are two periods when outside experts can help your church—before an event and after an event.
Before an event is the time to make your church secure. It is obviously far better to invest funds in prevention. Types of experts are:
- Your insurance agent. They are motivated to help prevent claims. Good insurance carriers have a wealth of free information to help keep your church safe.
- Local law enforcement often do free security checks of churches. This gives the police department firsthand knowledge of your church campus and begins a positive relationship with them.
- Attorneys and CPAs in your church. They may do analyses pro bono as members of your church. Review your bylaws and conduct external and internal audits.
- Security firms can perform a study of your campus. They can recommend the best use of security measures, whether they be locks, doors, training or video surveillance. Security firms can also make recommendations for a safety team for your church. This needs to fit your church’s view on armed or unarmed teams, include policies, procedures and ongoing training.
- Architects are aware of security issues. Your church may need to remodel its buildings to enhance your security.
After an event is a challenging time. Time seems to run in fast motion after an event, so it is good to have relationships with professionals before something happens. In case of a major event, you should already know who you will contact:
- Media consultants are essential. Most churches have little contact with major news media outlets. A consultant can help craft public statements that convey both essential facts and the caring nature of your church. Pastors are ill-equipped for this task. Reporters often discover facts churches endeavor to hide, so the best practice is to tell the whole story the first time.
- Psychologists and trained counselors are needed for families and staff who are traumatized. While everyone may not take up your offer for counseling, many will. Find various professionals who are skilled in dealing with the trauma of sexual abuse, physical violence, grief recovery and general trauma.
- Your CPA should be informed of any financial loss by fraud or embezzlement. Most often the initial amount reported is far lower than the actual loss. A full audit is needed after embezzlement. Report all fraud to the local police.
- Your insurance agent should be immediately notified after any event. If you wait, your insurance carrier may deny the claim. The carrier generally wants their staff and attorneys to handle the claim and interact with anyone bringing a suit against the church.
