Although violent acts remain fortunately uncommon in Mid-Missouri churches, incidents elsewhere highlight the fact that even the worship environment is not immune from such episodes.
"We have an obligation to protect our sheep from the wolves," said Cole County Sheriff Greg White. "We want everyone to have the opportunity to worship, but we need to ensure that they are safe in the process."
White was integral in coordinating the faith-based security training held recently at Concord Baptist Church in Jefferson City.