Stanislaus sheriff-led training helps places of worship be both welcoming, secure
Hundreds of faith leaders and volunteers from across Stanislaus County and beyond gathered this week for a Sheriff’s Office-led workshop focused on helping places of worship prepare for emergencies ranging from medical incidents to active threats.
The Sheriff’s Office hosted its second faith-based security workshop Monday, drawing close to 300 participants after the Nov. 18 first session filled quickly, according to Sgt. Nathan Crain. Attendees represented a wide range of religious traditions and traveled from as far as San Jose, Jamestown, Sonora and Oakhurst .
“Going into any presentation — whether it’s big or small — you’re always a little nervous,” Lt. Brock Condit said after the event. “After the first one, we had overwhelming positive feedback, and again today, overwhelming positive feedback.”
Condit and Hughson Police Chief Brock Dias helped organize the training after attending a large faith-based security symposium in Texas earlier this year. They adapted what they learned to create a program tailored specifically to local congregations.
“Our goal was to meet with places of worship in our county and provide them with information and training on how to make their buildings safer,” Condit said. “That means preparing and planning, identifying people within congregations who are willing to step up, and working together with law enforcement.”
The workshop covered active-threat preparedness, medical emergencies, natural disasters and how to safely manage disruptive or concerning social situations — challenges sheriff’s officials say are unique to faith settings.
“Places of worship are different from schools,” Condit said. “Schools are locked down. You know who belongs there. Places of worship are welcoming. The doors are open, and that’s how they should be. The question is how do you stay compassionate and welcoming while still being safe?”
While active-threat scenarios often draw attention, sheriff’s officials emphasized that medical emergencies are the most common incidents at places of worship, particularly among elderly congregants. Training focused on recognizing medical distress, basic first aid, calling 911 and the importance of having automated external defibrillators available.
Condit said one of the key messages was that preparedness does not require expensive equipment or major renovations.
“There are simple things that can make a difference,” he said. “Something as basic as putting a sign on a door that says, ‘This door is to remain closed at all times,’ can stop the flow of unidentified people and potentially prevent harm.”
For attendees like John Nance, a member of the safety team at Big Valley Grace Community Church in Modesto, the workshop offered an opportunity to reinforce existing practices while learning new approaches.
“I’m always trying to find out more information and make sure I’m doing the right thing,” Nance said. “Our church already has a pretty good safety program, but this helps us hone those skills and learn more.”
Nance said one of the biggest challenges for faith communities is balancing security with maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. “Faith spaces are meant to be welcoming,” he said. “You don’t want it to feel like a lockdown. You want people to feel comfortable, even if there’s an issue, while still keeping everyone safe.”
The timing of the workshop comes amid heightened awareness of attacks targeting religious institutions nationwide and internationally. Condit said recent incidents underscore the importance of preparation rather than panic.
“We’re not saying people shouldn’t be welcoming,” Condit said. “We just need to make sure people have a plan. That’s the most important thing.”
Participation and engagement throughout the workshop exceeded expectations, Condit said, with attendees actively asking questions and collaborating during sessions.
“There wasn’t a table in here that didn’t take part,” he said. “We probably could have answered questions all day. That tells you there’s a real need.”
Sheriff’s officials said they already have received extensive feedback from participants, including suggestions for future topics, and discussions are underway about making the workshop an annual event.
Condit said the training fills a longstanding gap in public-safety outreach.
“We’ve done a lot of work around school safety, and that’s important,” he said. “But houses of worship haven’t been a focus. Addressing that adds another layer to making this county safer — not just for congregations, but for anyone responsible for a building or a gathering.”
