The year 2025 marked a grim milestone in the escalation of violence against religious institutions. While attacks on churches, synagogues, and mosques have surged, the security measures intended to protect them remain dangerously stagnant. Too many houses of worship exist as “soft targets” in an increasingly volatile world. By failing to address glaring vulnerabilities — specifically at entry points — and relying on outdated survival doctrines, we are leaving the faithful exposed.

The failure of ‘run, hide, fight’

For years, the FBI’s “Run, Hide, Fight” protocol has been the standard response to active shooters. However, this doctrine is fundamentally flawed when applied to houses of worship. It assumes a level of mobility and anonymity that rarely exists during a religious service. Furthermore, it subtly suggests that civilians can outrun or outmaneuver an assailant armed with a semiautomatic weapon.