Church Emergency Response Network: New Initiative of American Friends of MAGEN DAVID ADOM

On December 29, a man wearing a fake beard and a wig entered West Freeman Church of Christ in White Settlement, Texas. Just before Communion, he opened fire and killed two members of the congregation before being killed himself.

As the tragedy of mass shootings in the U.S. continues to occur, community centers and houses of worship have become increasingly frequent targets. Since 2012, in the U.S. alone, there have been at least 17 church, synagogue, temple, or mosque shootings.

For many, the idea of a shooting happening at church still feels unreal. For pastors, rabbis, and other leaders, this growing reality must not only be considered but planned for as well. In the case of the West Freeman Church of Christ shooting, a prepared security team eliminated the threat within six seconds.

It is clear that preparation and knowledge can save lives. Recently American Friends of MAGEN DAVID ADOM, Israel’s Red Cross organization, launched a program called The Church Emergency Response Network. This network is a new initiative to help churches and other spiritual centers prepare for unexpected emergencies. “The worst thing, if something terrible happens, is to find yourself in a situation with no idea what to do,” stated Raphael Herbst, senior paramedic with MAGEN DAVID ADOM.

Established as an aid for church leaders who are already overwhelmed by full schedules and the never-ending demands of ministry, the Church Emergency Response Network will serve as a hub of information, strategies, and resources to help church leaders stay informed and prepared should disaster strike. Topics such as church security, first aid for mass-casualty situations, emergency communication, crisis management, and more will be covered in a monthly newsletter. Additionally, the paramedics and first responders from MAGEN DAVID ADOM will share valuable insights and lessons they have learned as the world’s most experienced mass-casualty response team.

The network is free to join. All pastors, church and volunteer leaders are invited to participate.

You can join the Church Emergency Response Network at https://www.savinglivesinisrael.org/emergencyresponsenetwork. To learn more about MAGEN DAVID ADOM, visit its website: https://www.savinglivesinisrael.org/.

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