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CCSTT Justification

October 03, 20252 min read

Why Take the Comprehensive Church Safety Team Training Course?

church interior with a glowing cross on the wall

Safety in general presents challenges. Just because you are in a church, this is no

different. Frankly, it is more complicated because you are not the police. You

lack gear, enough training, and real-world experience. Research shows churches are

increasingly targeted by both spontaneous and premeditated acts of violence.

According to the FBI’s Active Shooter Report, houses of worship account for

roughly 4% of all active shooter incidents in the U.S. [source: FBI, Active Shooter

Incidents in the United States]. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security

identifies faith-based venues as “soft targets” because they are open, welcoming

environments that are often less prepared for high-stress emergencies [source:

DHS, Protecting Houses of Worship].

This reality makes trained safety teams essential—not optional.

The Comprehensive Church Safety Team Training (CCSTT) equips ordinary

volunteers to handle extraordinary situations. Many churches rely on ushers,

greeters, or well-meaning volunteers to respond in crises. But volunteering doesn’t

automatically equal readiness. Without proper preparation, a response can

increase liability and cause greater harm. As Insurance Journal notes, inadequate

training of church volunteers is one of the leading factors driving legal and financial

exposure for ministries [source: Insurance Journal, Church Risk Management

Trends].

  • This course addresses the full spectrum of what a modern church safety team

    must know:

  • Liability Awareness & Risk Management: Understanding organizational

    responsibility reduces legal exposure.

  • De-escalation Skills: Studies confirm that verbal de-escalation is one of the

    most effective methods of preventing violence before it escalates [source:

    Crisis Prevention Institute].

  • Team Selection & Roles: The wrong person in the wrong role can jeopardize

    safety. Structured selection ensures the right temperament and skill set.

  • Tactical Readiness: From recognizing pre-assault indicators to implementing scenario-based

    training, safety teams learn proven methods that align with best practices in security and law

    enforcement.

  • Documentation & After-Action Reporting: These aren’t just bureaucratic steps—they are vital for

    learning, accountability, and protection in the aftermath of an incident.

Ultimately, church safety is a ministry. The calling is not only to guard the flock physically but

to do so with wisdom, compassion, and restraint. This course bridges ministry with security,

preparing safety teams to protect their congregations while upholding the mission of the church.

Delivered online at your own pace or in-person for organizations, the CCSTT

ensures that your team is not just present—but prepared.

I am Brad. I have spent over 20 years in the military and law enforcement. I have developed training presented to thousands of officers nationwide and have published four articles in nationally circulated trade publications. There is always room for growth and improvement but neither can happen without time, intention, and training.

Brad Young

I am Brad. I have spent over 20 years in the military and law enforcement. I have developed training presented to thousands of officers nationwide and have published four articles in nationally circulated trade publications. There is always room for growth and improvement but neither can happen without time, intention, and training.

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