Book details

  • Genre:religion
  • Sub-genre:Christian Living / General
  • Language:English
  • Pages:100
  • eBook ISBN:9798317847999

Safeguarding the Church in Uncertain Times

By Robert L. Mason

Overview

I have written this book to equip churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and all places of worship with clear, practical emergency action plans that address every type of threat—including active shooter situations. Drawing from real law enforcement experience, my goal is to empower congregants and faith leaders with accurate, actionable knowledge so they can protect their families and communities, regardless of their religious affiliation or beliefs. Places of worship should be sanctuaries of peace, not targets of opportunity. Too often, criminals view them as "soft targets"—vulnerable locations filled with good people who may not be prepared to respond effectively to violence. This book aims to change that. It provides proven strategies that give people of faith a genuine tactical advantage, transforming potential victims into prepared guardians of their own safety. My mission is simple: help worshippers move from a mindset of fear or fatalistic vulnerability to one of confident readiness. No one should feel like a sheep led to slaughter when they gather to worship. By promoting practical, effective safety measures, we can deter predators and ensure that faith communities remain safe havens—strong, resilient, and prepared—where people can focus on spiritual growth instead of worrying about harm.
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Description

I have written this book to equip churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and every place of worship with practical, easy-to-implement emergency action plans designed to prepare for a wide range of threats, including active shooter incidents and other acts of violence. Drawing upon decades of real-world law enforcement experience, my goal is to provide faith leaders, security teams, and congregants with accurate, actionable guidance that enhances safety while respecting the unique mission and traditions of every faith community. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries—places where people gather to worship, find hope, and experience peace. Sadly, they have increasingly become targets for individuals intent on causing harm. Criminals often perceive these locations as "soft targets," believing those inside are unprepared to recognize or respond to danger. This book is intended to change that perception by providing proven strategies, practical planning, and realistic training principles that help transform vulnerable congregations into prepared and resilient communities. My mission is straightforward: to help people of faith replace uncertainty with confidence through preparation. Every congregation deserves the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize threats, respond effectively during an emergency, and protect the lives entrusted to their care. Readiness does not diminish faith—it complements it. By embracing practical security measures and developing a culture of awareness, places of worship can remain welcoming environments where people are free to focus on their faith, knowing they have taken responsible steps to safeguard one another.
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About The Author

I was born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and moved to Houston, Texas, in January 1981 to begin the Houston Police Academy as a police cadet. After graduating from the academy and completing the Field Training Officer (FTO) program, I was assigned to the Central Patrol Division. During my nearly nineteen years in Central Patrol, I served as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, and member of the Houston Police Department's S.W.A.T. Perimeter Team after successfully completing the department's demanding Basic S.W.A.T. School. In June 2000, I was selected for the Houston Police Department's K-9 Detail, where I had the privilege of serving alongside three exceptional patrol dogs during the remainder of my career. After more than thirty-six years of dedicated service, I retired from the Houston Police Department in February 2017. Law enforcement has provided me with extensive experience in protecting and serving others, while my Christian faith has shaped my perspective on leadership, service, and the importance of safeguarding places of worship. Over the years, I have devoted considerable time to researching acts of violence against churches and studying practical ways congregations can better prepare for today's security challenges. This book is the result of that research and experience. Its purpose is to help churches develop effective security strategies, establish well-trained safety teams, and create practical plans that can help prevent violence before it occurs. While no church wants to imagine facing such a tragedy, thoughtful preparation can save lives and help protect both the congregation and those who serve within it. In 2020, I published my first book, Gone to the Dawgs, a collection of humorous and memorable true stories from my years in law enforcement. Wanting to continue serving my community after retiring from the Houston Police Department, I joined the Conroe Independent School District Police Department in 2019 as a Patrol Officer and Field Training Officer in Montgomery County, Texas. I retired for a second time in January 2024 to reduce my workload but continue serving as a part-time police officer, primarily assigned to the district's elementary schools. Working with young students remains one of the most rewarding parts of my career, and I consider it a privilege to help provide a safe and positive learning environment. My wife, Robyn, and I have been happily married for nearly thirty-eight years. We are blessed with two married children and a wonderful grandson. Together, we remain active in our church and are deeply committed to serving our family, our community, and our faith.
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