Three Spheres of Security
Incorporating the three spheres of watch can greatly aide to the safety of your attenders. As we all know ensuring the safety of your attenders is at the forefront of every security member. So adding the three spheres watch will give you a broader layer of securing. Just as a telescope, the scope of your security awareness in these rings should develop your eyes and ears to any potential threat.
OUTTER SPHERE
This is your parking lot as well as the street that leads into your lot. This is the first watch in keeping a visual for any threat. Being aware of any cars that seem to circle around the church via street or lot once service started. Also, being visual to any situational issues or possible aggressive intruders at this outer ring can and should be addressed outside and keeps the risk further from your center sphere. Being relational in this ring will help you discern their intentions, either visiting for service or scouting location. Asking open ended questions are perfect at this point.
INNER SPHERE
This is your entrances/ doors. This is your second watch. Attendees who are now entering your church are now one step closer to your center sphere. Your ability to visually pan/scan attendees for anything that may pose as a threat such as bag backs, clothing that is worn out of the season (long jackets in summer). Any bulkiness in lower leg ankles, small of back or hip that can be a weapon. Being relational is very important, it will give you quick insight to their mindset.
CENTER SPHERE
This is your sanctuary and kids ministry. This is your third watch. At this point the attendees and any potential threat would have passed thru the first/second sphere and your objective it to keep ANY threat furthest from this center sphere. Your eyes and ears are focused on the pastor’s location, and those siting around him. Also, the rows of seats nearest any exit door, front and back rows should be observed looking for anything or one that doesn’t look right. (Example: a sock in the fridge). The kids ministry> Observing that no one is left to wander into the kids ministry without a child/parent tag pick up. It is VITAL to keep any threat either being aggressive and or non-custodial parents out of this area. Being relational and intentional to learn the family dynamics of your attendees is key! It will help you discern any foe to this nest.
Safety and security is a ministry, as watchman on the wall developing your foresight gives you GREATER insight to any wolves among the sheep. Also aides in planning/securing your three spheres in hindsight.
Submitted by; Laura Delgado Safety/Security Lead Community Christian Church-Yellow Box Naperville, IL