FORT WAYNE, IN (BROTHERHOOD MUTUAL) – Ministries today face an increasing need to prepare for disruptions during worship services.
Whether it’s a lone actor experiencing a mental health issue or a group of protestors looking to instigate a confrontation, equipping staff and volunteers with practical training grounded in established policies can help organizations respond more effectively under pressure, reduce risk and create safer environments for their communities.
Ministries can significantly improve preparedness by conducting realistic training exercises and clearly defining roles across teams. Leadership plays a critical role in this process, setting expectations, reinforcing policy adherence and empowering safety teams to act decisively when needed.
“Policies help set expectations for how teams will respond to disruption, but ministries also need to train on and follow their policies,” said Charles Hedman, associate corporate counsel with Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company.
Hedman adds that early engagement is essential whenever someone suspicious is spotted. He recommends simple, non-threatening interactions to help de-escalate situations before they can turn confrontational. Greeting individuals warmly and asking thoughtful, pastoral questions — such as how they are doing or how the ministry can assist them — can build rapport and ease tension.
Verbal de-escalation should be prioritized whenever possible. Safety team members are encouraged to avoid physical contact unless there is an immediate threat to life or physical harm. Instead, training should focus on communication strategies that calm potentially disruptive individuals and encourage voluntary compliance.
When situations require additional support, involving law enforcement is a prudent step and can help maintain a peaceful environment for everyone present. A visible police presence often stabilizes environments without the need for further action. Law enforcement professionals bring specialized training and legal authority, helping reduce risk and potential liability.
“Relying on trained professionals when situations escalate is not a sign of failure — it’s a smart risk management decision,” Hedman added. “Partnering with local law enforcement helps ministries protect both their people and their mission.”
Ministries that align strong leadership, effective training and thoughtful engagement strategies are better positioned to navigate uncertainty and maintain safe, welcoming environments for all.
To learn more about strengthening ministry risk management practices, read the latest Resilient Ministry publication from Brotherhood Mutual found here.
Learn more about Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company and the services they can provide your church as a BRN preferred partner here.
