The Attitude and Mindset of a Church Security Team
When churches start a Church Security Team (CST), a couple of reactions usually occur. Some church members doubt the need for a CST, while other members eagerly volunteer so they can “officially” carry a firearm and being assigned a radio. The former perspective can be overcome through patient education, and the latter, if left unattended, can eventually erode both the morale and benefit of CSTs.
This article addresses the attitude and mindset a CST participant should have. The proper attitude toward participating on a CST ought to be one of service to the church rather than belonging to a “high speed, low drag” security detail. Col. Rex Grossman gave the personal security world the term “sheepdog” which describes the mindset of protectors. According to Grossman, the bulk of society (for the purpose of this article the Church) is made up of sheep who need protecting. Those who would harm the sheep are wolves, and the wolves prey on the sheep. The sheep are unable to withstand the wolves and need others to step in and provide security. These are the sheepdogs.
With all due respect, I have a problem with this analogy being applied to CSTs. CST members are not sheepdogs. They too are sheep. CST members are not separate from the congregation, but they are members of the congregation. Just as other members of the congregation serve the Shepherd (God) in various capacities, CST members serve the Shepherd by providing physical security for the sheep. This understanding is foundational for the correct attitude necessary for those participating in a CST. Like other church members, CST members ought to take their assignment and service seriously. Sincere and effective service requires constant preparation, continuous training, and conscientious action. All these commitments require the correct attitude. CST members should maintain their gear and report to their stations on time. They should constantly work on improving the skills necessary to ensure the safety of the church and strictly adhere to the church security policy and procedures. It is imperative that CST members always know the appropriate action to take and be prepared to take it at a moment’s notice.
A CST’s effectiveness depends on the members developing and maintaining the right attitude. The latest and greatest gear, the best thought-out tactics, and a high level of skill are inadequate and ineffective without the proper mindset. The good news is a mindset can be developed and maintained through intentional effort and education.
Look for future articles which are going to discuss how to develop and keep the correct attitude among CST members.
