How Will Terrorists Strike at US Churches?

How Will Terrorists Strike at U.S. Churches?

In light of recent escalations in terrorist threats, it is essential for churches across the U.S. to understand the methods that are most likely to be used in potential attacks. The rise in church-targeted violence is a growing concern, and we can look to international patterns for insight into what may occur within our borders.

Currently, Russia and Europe are facing a surge in attacks from ISIS, particularly through coordinated active shooter incidents. In these attacks, multiple teams of shooters simultaneously target different churches, intentionally overwhelming first responders by striking at several locations at once. This coordinated strategy makes it harder for law enforcement and emergency services to respond effectively, a tactic we can expect to see replicated in the U.S. This is not speculation—this is a very real and pressing threat, and churches must be prepared to face these scenarios.

Active Shooter Incidents: The Most Likely Threat

Active shooter events remain one of the most common and deadly methods of attack for terrorists targeting public spaces, including churches. This type of violence is devastating, and the coordination of multiple shooters hitting several churches at the same time poses the highest risk based on international trends.

Real-World Examples

To understand the severity of this threat, look no further than Russia and Europe, where ISIS has orchestrated multiple, simultaneous attacks on churches. Teams of shooters target different churches in coordinated strikes, all aimed at drawing first responder resources to different locations, creating chaos, and maximizing casualties. The same strategy was devastatingly effective in other public spaces, and churches are likely next in their sights.

Preparedness Steps

For church safety teams, preparing for an active shooter incident is no longer an option—it is a necessity. Here are the steps every church should consider to mitigate this threat:

• KEEP YOUR CHURCH OPEN AND WELCOMING: The most important thing you can do is leave your church open for new followers of Christ to come in. We must keep a welcoming stance in the church so they feel comfortable to enter. Think of yourself as an enhanced greeter there to welcome everybody that enters but having a plan to defend the church if it comes to that. Now is not the time for bag checks and magnetometers.

• Armed security teams: Churches must ensure they have trained, armed personnel who are prepared to respond to a shooter. These teams should be stationed in key locations. This should be a layered defense. People staged at doors outside of the church, in the common areas and then in the sanctuary.

• Situational awareness: Everyone in the church, from security to congregants, must be aware of their surroundings. Early identification of suspicious behavior can help prevent a tragedy.

• Communication plans: In the event of a coordinated attack, maintaining communication with law enforcement and between churches will be crucial for an effective response. Every second counts in these situations.

By understanding the tactics terrorists are using globally, we can better prepare ourselves for the possibility of similar attacks on U.S. churches.

Active Stabbing Incidents

While active shooter attacks have become one of the most recognized terrorist tactics, another rising trend in terrorist violence is the use of knives and other sharp weapons. Stabbing incidents, often underestimated, have been increasingly common in terror attacks worldwide. These attacks are particularly dangerous in crowded settings, where close-quarters assaults can cause panic and confusion.

Explanation of the Threat

In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in active stabbing incidents as terrorists look for methods that are easier to carry out than firearms attacks. Knives are simple to acquire, easily concealed, and deadly in the hands of a determined attacker. Churches, with their open and welcoming environments, are vulnerable to these kinds of attacks, especially in areas where congregants gather closely. Keep your church open, you are just going to have to work harder to keep everyone safe. We all read the same book and we know how it ends. GOD wins!

Real-World Examples

Several knife attacks have occurred in Europe and other parts of the world, with terrorists specifically targeting crowded locations. The 2020 Nice, France, church attack is a sobering example. An attacker armed with a knife killed three people inside a church, showing how devastating a stabbing attack can be. Knife attacks are often fast and chaotic, leaving little time for intervention once they begin.

Preparedness Steps

To mitigate the threat of a stabbing incident, church security teams should focus on the following strategies:

• Close-quarters defensive training: Church security teams must be trained to handle knife-wielding attackers. This includes situational drills focused on stopping an attacker with minimal casualties.

• Vigilance at entrances: Security personnel should be positioned at entrances and in other areas where large groups congregate.

With proper preparation and vigilance, churches can reduce the likelihood of a successful stabbing attack and ensure that congregants remain safe.

Vehicle Ramming

Another method terrorists have used to carry out attacks is vehicle ramming—driving vehicles into crowds of people to cause maximum harm. While vehicle ramming is more commonly associated with public events, it remains a serious concern for churches, especially those with large outdoor gatherings or vulnerable parking areas.

Explanation of the Threat

Terrorists have increasingly turned to vehicle ramming because of the ease of access to the weapon (a vehicle) and the devastating impact it can have. Churches, particularly those with large congregations that gather outdoors or in parking lots, are potential targets. A vehicle ramming attack can cause significant casualties before security teams or law enforcement can react.

Real-World Examples

One of the most well-known vehicle ramming incidents occurred in Nice, France, during Bastille Day in 2016, when a terrorist drove a large truck into a crowd, killing 47 people. More recently, there have been similar attacks in Europe and the U.S., where vehicles were used to attack groups of people in public spaces. While these attacks have not yet focused on churches, it is only a matter of time before terrorists recognize their vulnerability, particularly during high-attendance events.

Preparedness Steps

Churches must take several steps to protect against vehicle ramming incidents:

• Parking lot surveillance: Ensuring that security teams monitor parking areas at all times can prevent vehicles from entering areas where large groups gather.

• Barriers and obstacles: Placing physical barriers, such as bollards or large planters, around the perimeter of outdoor gatherings can prevent a vehicle from gaining access to vulnerable areas.

• Traffic control: Churches should work with local authorities to establish secure traffic patterns during large services or events, particularly in urban areas where vehicles may easily access pedestrian spaces.

By preparing for the possibility of vehicle ramming attacks, churches can limit access to vulnerable areas and reduce the risk of a catastrophic event.

IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices)

While less common than other forms of attack, IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) remain a significant threat, particularly when combined with other attack methods. In several active shooter events involving ISIS, IEDs were used simultaneously to create even more chaos, casualties, and confusion. These devices can be planted in advance or deployed during an attack, amplifying the impact of a terrorist strike.

Explanation of the Threat

IEDs are used by terrorists to maximize destruction and panic. While active shooter incidents and stabbings may initially draw attention, IEDs can be used to target those fleeing the attack or to strike first responders arriving at the scene. When combined with a coordinated active shooter attack, these devices have the potential to inflict catastrophic damage.

Real-World Examples

Several ISIS-related attacks, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, have involved the use of IEDs during active shooter events. For instance, ISIS has used explosives to target both the initial victims and the first responders who come to assist, making these attacks especially deadly and difficult to respond to.

In the 2015 Paris attacks, explosives were used alongside firearms to target civilians, creating confusion and making it harder for law enforcement to secure the scene. While such incidents have been more prevalent internationally, U.S. churches must remain aware of this possibility.

Preparedness Steps

To protect against the threat of IEDs, church security teams should take the following precautions:

• Evacuation and escape plans: Ensure that your congregation knows the safest evacuation routes and that these routes are kept clear of potential explosive threats.

• Surveillance and detection: Security teams should be trained to identify suspicious packages or objects, particularly in areas where an attacker could plant an IED before or during an attack.

• Coordination with local authorities: Establishing relationships with local bomb squads and other emergency response teams can be crucial in detecting and disarming IEDs if a threat arises.

While the use of IEDs may be less likely than other forms of attack, their potential impact cannot be ignored, especially when used in tandem with active shooter tactics.

How Can Churches Stay Vigilant?

As the threats to U.S. churches grow more complex, it’s essential that congregations and church security teams remain vigilant, prepared, and resolute. The threats we’ve discussed—active shooters, stabbings, vehicle ramming, and the potential use of IEDs—are real, and the evolving tactics of terrorist groups like ISIS show that no church can afford to be complacent.

Preparedness Steps for Churches

To protect your congregation, here are the key actions every church should take:

• Increase Security Personnel: Double the number of security personnel, especially during large services and events. Make sure they are positioned at entrances, parking lots, and throughout the worship area.

• Focus on Training: Security teams must be trained to handle multiple types of attacks, including close-quarters combat (for stabbings) and rapid response to active shooter events.

• Maintain Situational Awareness: Every member of your security team, and even your congregation, should be aware of their surroundings at all times. Suspicious activity should be reported immediately.

• Use Barriers and Traffic Control: Protect your congregation from vehicle ramming attacks by placing barriers around outdoor areas where people gather.

• Communication is Key: Ensure that you have clear communication channels with local law enforcement and emergency services. Regular updates should be shared within the church community, and the security team should be in constant contact with each other during events.

Spiritual Vigilance

Above all, we must remember that our ultimate protection comes from God. As Psalm 46:1 reminds us: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." While we prepare ourselves with practical measures, our faith in God must remain at the center of all we do. Prayer for the safety of our churches, safety ministries, and congregations is just as important as the security steps we take.

Stay informed and continue to follow Christian Warrior Training for real-time updates on new threats and security strategies. We must remain vigilant, but we must also remain strong in our mission to serve Christ and welcome all who seek Him.