Hundreds of faith leaders and volunteers from Stanislaus County and nearby areas attended a workshop organized by the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office to help places of worship prepare for emergencies, including medical incidents and active threats. The event was held Monday after an earlier session in November filled up quickly, according to Sgt. Nathan Crain.
Participants represented various religious traditions and traveled from as far as San Jose, Jamestown, Sonora, and Oakhurst. Lt. Brock Condit commented on the positive response: “Going into any presentation — whether it’s big or small — you’re always a little nervous,” he said after the event. “After the first one, we had overwhelming positive feedback, and again today, overwhelming positive feedback.”
Lt. Condit and Hughson Police Chief Brock Dias developed the training after attending a security symposium in Texas earlier this year. They adapted those lessons for local congregations. “Our goal was to meet with places of worship in our county and provide them with information and training on how to make their buildings safer,” Condit said. “That means preparing and planning, identifying people within congregations who are willing to step up, and working together with law enforcement.”
The workshop addressed topics such as active-threat preparedness, medical emergencies, natural disasters, and managing disruptive social situations—challenges that officials say are specific to faith settings. Condit explained: “Places of worship are different from schools,” he said. “Schools are locked down. You know who belongs there. Places of worship are welcoming. The doors are open, and that’s how they should be. The question is how do you stay compassionate and welcoming while still being safe?”
Sheriff’s officials noted that while active-threat scenarios receive attention, most incidents at places of worship involve medical emergencies among elderly members. Training included recognizing distress signs, basic first aid techniques, calling 911 promptly, and using automated external defibrillators.
Condit emphasized that improving safety does not require large investments: “There are simple things that can make a difference,” he said. “Something as basic as putting a sign on a door that says, ‘This door is to remain closed at all times,’ can stop the flow of unidentified people and potentially prevent harm.”
John Nance from Big Valley Grace Community Church in Modesto attended the workshop to reinforce his church’s safety practices: “I’m always trying to find out more information and make sure I’m doing the right thing,” Nance said. “Our church already has a pretty good safety program, but this helps us hone those skills and learn more.” He also discussed the challenge faith communities face balancing openness with security: “Faith spaces are meant to be welcoming,” he said. “You don’t want it to feel like a lockdown. You want people to feel comfortable even if there’s an issue while still keeping everyone safe.”
The workshop took place during heightened concerns about attacks on religious institutions across the country and internationally; organizers stressed preparation over fear: “We’re not saying people shouldn’t be welcoming,” Condit said. “We just need to make sure people have a plan. That’s the most important thing.”
Attendee participation exceeded expectations with high engagement throughout sessions: “There wasn’t a table in here that didn’t take part,” Condit said. “We probably could have answered questions all day. That tells you there’s a real need.”
Officials reported receiving significant feedback on future topics for these workshops; discussions are ongoing about making them an annual event.
Condit added that this initiative addresses an area often overlooked by public-safety outreach efforts: “We’ve done a lot of work around school safety, and that’s important,” he said. “But houses of worship haven’t been a focus. Addressing that adds another layer to making this county safer—not just for congregations but for anyone responsible for a building or gathering.”
