CHURCH SECURITY POLICY

In recent years, Centenary has installed magnetic locks on all our metal exterior doors. These locks can be programmed to unlock on a set schedule. In addition, certain people are given electronic key fobs that enable them to enter the building (but not unlock the doors). We upgraded our perimeter security in light of violent attacks against churches and preschools around the country.

On Tuesday, October 21, the Administrative Board approved a recommendation from the Safety and Security Team to implement a “Locked Church” policy effective Monday, October 27.

For Sunday worship, funerals, weddings, and other special services, the wooden doors at the entrances to the Sanctuary and Chapel will be unlocked 20 minutes before the service begins, then locked back 10 minutes after services start. Ushers may be on duty to open doors from the inside should people arrive earlier or later. AT ALL OTHER TIMES, the doors will remain locked. The main entrance to the Education Building and the two handicapped entrances will also be unlocked during those same windows of time, but they will automatically relock on schedule.

During the week, the Education Building main entrance will be unlocked for preschool pick-up from 11:45-12:15. AT ALL OTHER times, the doors will remain locked, and anyone who wants to enter the building will need to ring the bell and be allowed in from the office.

What about inclement weather? Can people enter via one of the side doors (Scout Room, Kitchen, Playground)? ONLY if they have a fob, or someone inside lets them in. Those doors will NOT be unlocked.

What about choir, youth group, committees, and scouts? The leaders of all approved groups have been given key fobs. Each group will have to monitor the door to allow others in.

DOORS MAY NOT BE PROPPED OPEN. Groups sometimes use a brick or piece of wood to prop open a door rather than watch it to control access. This defeats the purpose of having a security system and makes everyone in the building vulnerable.



We realize a Locked Church policy will sometimes be inconvenient, but it only takes one violent intruder to destroy the sanctity and security of our church. Our responsibility to provide a haven for all our people takes priority over convenience. Thank you for your cooperation and for your prayers for our safety.