Church Security in Chicago: A Comprehensive 2025 Guide

When thieves targeted Immaculate Conception Five Holy Martyrs church in Brighton Park twice in December 2024, Father Miguel Venegas faced a harsh reality that many Chicago religious leaders now confront. "It was a shock, like, what is going on?" Father Venegas said. "What is happening?" His experience reflects a growing crisis for houses of worship across the city. These safe spaces are increasingly becoming crime targets, and the right protection is key.

As trusted security system installers serving Chicago's religious institutions, Forbel understands the delicate balance between openness and safety. This guide provides church leaders with actionable strategies, local resources, and expert insights to create secure environments where faith can flourish without fear.

The Reality of Church Security Threats in Chicago

The security landscape for Chicago churches changed dramatically in 2024. It was a year of significant challenges for church security ministries, as threats to Christian congregations and schools reached new heights. The unprecedented elevation of the Church Security Threat Level System to "Severe" marked a turning point, signaling that religious institutions face unprecedented risks.

Chicago led major U.S. cities with a significant 25.5 percent decline in overall hate crimes in 2024. Anti-Jewish hate crimes dramatically rose by 58 percent in 2024, comprising 37.6 percent of all hate crimes reported to CPD in 2024. This paradox, declining overall crime but rising religious targeting, demands targeted security responses from faith communities.

Recent incidents paint a troubling picture. Church and community leaders worry this is a vulnerable time of year for places of worship. Beyond the Brighton Park church targeted twice, patterns of vandalism, theft, and more serious threats have emerged across Chicago neighborhoods. The statistics don’t lie; at least 387 incidents have occurred across 43 states and the District of Columbia since May 2020.

Looking ahead, security experts anticipate continued challenges. Predictions for 2025 are based on a careful analysis of last year's crime trends and insights gathered from FBI agents, criminal intelligence analysts, clergy, safety team members, and other experts in church safety. Churches must prepare for evolving threats ranging from property crimes to active shooter scenarios.

How to Build the Foundation of Your Church Security

The best way to mitigate a potential attack is to take a holistic approach to security that covers all aspects. Creating a comprehensive security strategy requires addressing multiple layers of protection while maintaining your church's welcoming mission.

Establishing a Security Team Structure

A robust security plan, which includes the appropriate team and security measures, creates a safe and comfortable environment for everyone. Your security team should include:

Security Leadership Roles

• Security coordinator: Ensures a clear plan for handling crises, whether an emergency, evacuation, or disruptive behavior.
• Surveillance officers: Monitor security cameras and maintain situational awareness.
• Access control managers: Supervise entrances to ensure children's ministries or private spaces are secure while maintaining a warm and welcoming environment for churchgoers.
• Emergency response team: Trained in first aid, CPR, and crisis management.

Physical Security Enhancements

Modern church security requires thoughtful implementation of physical measures that deter threats without creating fortress-like environments. These solutions include:

Access Control Systems

• Implement visitor check-in procedures with badges or digital systems
• Install electronic locks on sensitive areas (offices, childcare rooms, storage)
• Consider keyless entry systems for authorized personnel
• Establish clear protocols for key distribution and management

Video Surveillance Technology

Modern church security systems blend seamlessly with contemporary architecture while offering advanced features. For example, gun detection alerts security personnel immediately if a weapon is detected, while license plate recognition keeps track of vehicles entering or exiting the property. Essential camera placements include:

• Main entrances and exits
• Parking lots and exterior perimeters
• Hallways leading to children's areas
• Collection counting rooms
• Office spaces with valuable equipment

Alarm and Detection Systems

• Install comprehensive intrusion detection covering all entry points
• Implement panic buttons in key locations (offices, nurseries, sanctuaries)
• Consider glass break sensors for vulnerable windows
• Ensure fire alarm systems meet Chicago building codes

Want to explore comprehensive security solutions? Learn about our turnkey security systems designed specifically for houses of worship.

Developing Your Church Security Plan

Modern church security demands thoughtful implementation of physical measures that protect without creating fortress-like environments. Your approach should layer multiple security elements working together seamlessly.

Access control should be your first line of defense. Implement visitor check-in procedures that identify everyone entering your facility while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. Electronic locks on sensitive areas like offices and childcare rooms provide controlled access without constant supervision. Consider keyless entry systems that allow you to grant and revoke access instantly, eliminating the risk of lost or copied keys.

Video surveillance technology has evolved dramatically. Modern church security systems blend seamlessly with contemporary architecture, offering advanced features, like:

• Gun detection to alert security personnel immediately if a weapon is detected.
• License plate recognition to track vehicles entering or exiting the property.
• Strategic camera placement that covers all entrances and exits, parking areas where many incidents begin, hallways leading to children's spaces, and areas handling money or valuable equipment.

Alarm systems provide critical early warning. Comprehensive intrusion detection should cover all potential entry points, including windows and roof access. Panic buttons should be placed discreetly in offices, nurseries, and sanctuaries should enable silent alerts during emergencies. Every second counts, so alarm systems should integrate with local law enforcement to ensure a rapid response.

Chicago-Specific Resources and Support

Chicago churches have access to exceptional local resources that many religious leaders don't fully utilize. Understanding and engaging these programs can transform your security approach.

Chicago Police Department Programs

The Chicago Police Department offers specialized support through the Place of Worship Safety Advisory Team (POWSAT). POWSAT, created by CPD's 24th District officers in late 2018, provides "Greeter/Workplace Violence/Active Threat Presentations", building assessments, and lockdown drills to various religious denominations. These free services include professional security assessments, active threat response training, and customized safety planning for your specific facility.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program offers members of the public an opportunity to learn basic hands-on disaster response techniques and life-saving skills. CERT members train for a minimum of 27 hours in the classroom and 3 hours using hands-on practical skills. This training prepares church teams to respond effectively until professional help arrives.

Federal Grant Opportunities

Federal funding opportunities can offset security costs significantly. The total funding available for fiscal year 2025 is $274.5 million. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program — Urban Area (NSGP-UA) received $137.25 million. Chicago churches fall under the Urban Area designation, making them eligible for substantial grants.

It’s possible to take advantage of these grant opportunities. Eligible churches and other nonprofits can apply for the annual FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). If awarded, the church can receive up to $150,000 per site for target hardening against potential terrorist or extremist attack.

Churches can apply for funding for 1–3 sites for a total maximum potential funding of $450,000 for three sites. These grants cover security cameras, access control systems, protective barriers, training programs, and even contracted security personnel under certain conditions.

However, don’t apply without the right preparation. Before applying, churches and other nonprofit organizations will be required to apply for a UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) through Sam.gov, which can take weeks to receive. Starting early and potentially collaborating with other churches can improve your chances of success.

Technology Solutions for Modern Church Security

Today's security technology offers sophisticated protection while remaining unobtrusive. Understanding your options helps you invest wisely in systems that grow with your needs.

AI Search quickly identifies incidents in recorded footage, which can save time during investigations. Modern systems integrate multiple technologies into unified platforms, allowing your security team to monitor and respond from anywhere. Cloud-based management enables multi-site churches to maintain consistent security across locations.

Security Technology Comparison Table

Future-Proofing Your Security Program

The challenges of 2025 require a proactive and unified response, which will also help in the future. Churches must anticipate evolving threats while embracing protective innovations.

Emerging technologies offer new capabilities. Artificial intelligence enhances threat detection, identifying suspicious behaviors before incidents occur. Integrated platforms are also helpful in connecting previously isolated systems, enabling comprehensive response coordination. Cloud-based systems provide flexibility and scalability as your congregation grows.

Community partnerships are also valuable in multiplying your effectiveness. Partner with other churches and organizations to share best practices and enhance security efforts, and join interfaith security councils sharing threat intelligence. Participate in neighborhood watch programs, extending protection beyond church walls. You can even coordinate with local law enforcement for enhanced patrol presence during services.

The path forward requires balance, embracing necessary security without taking away from the spiritual focus. Churches that successfully navigate this challenge create environments where faith flourishes safely, protected but not imprisoned by security measures.

Take Action: How to Protect Your Chicago Congregation

Church security isn't optional in today's environment; it's a sacred responsibility to take seriously. Every day without proper security measures leaves your congregation vulnerable to preventable threats. The question isn't whether to implement security, but how quickly you can protect those who trust you with their spiritual care.

Forbel specializes in designing and implementing customized security solutions for Chicago's diverse houses of worship. Our experienced team understands the unique balance religious institutions must maintain between openness and protection, and we’re here to find a solution tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to schedule your free security assessment and discover how professional security design can safeguard your congregation while preserving your welcoming mission.