Mourners participate in a candlelight vigil held for the victims of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in Sutherland Springs, Texas. (AP Photo/Darren Abate)
CULLMAN – In the wake of the tragic church shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas, the Cullman County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) will host a Church Safety Class tonight, Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. at Temple Baptist Church. The class will focus on violence prevention and the steps a church and congregation can take to prevent imminent danger.
Some of the points that will be discussed are the creation of a church security team, increasing situational awareness and promoting building security.
It is encouraged that two to four members of each church attend who can be part of a security team.
"I never thought when I began my law enforcement career 18 years ago that the security of our churches would be a national issue at any point. I hope that pastors and church parishioners can attend this class to gain more knowledge and make their congregations as safe as possible," said Sheriff Matt Gentry.
The class will be taught by Sgt. David Nunn and Deputy Chad Whaley, both of whom have more than 18 years of law enforcement experience.
To register for the class, email Capt. Mark Persall at mpersall@cullmansheriff.org or Bradley Williams at bwilliams@cullmansheriff.org; you may also call 256-734-0342.
Registration is not required, but is encouraged. Upon registration, please provide your name and the name of the church you attend.
Temple Baptist Church is located at 30 County Road 1184, Cullman, Alabama 35057.
