When Worship Is Disrupted: How Congregations Can Respond and Prepare

Earlier this week, a congregation in Seattle experienced a disruption during worship, highlighting the urgent need for churches to be prepared for crises. In response, the ELCA Strategic Communications team has developed a Crisis Communications Best Practices Guide to help congregations plan for and navigate emergencies effectively.

Houses of worship, while sacred spaces, are not immune to disruption, emergencies, or violence. The top recommendation from ELCA’s crisis communication experts is simple but crucial: assemble a crisis team before you need one. A well-prepared congregation can respond swiftly, communicate effectively, and ensure safety for all.

To aid in this effort, the ELCA has provided a set of resources to help congregations develop a crisis communications plan, including:

These resources emphasize the importance of:

  • Clear leadership and designated spokespersons for media and public communication.

  • Proactive planning to address potential scenarios such as disruptions, threats, or emergency situations.

  • Collaboration with local law enforcement and community partners to ensure congregations are prepared to respond effectively.

The Lutheran theological perspective reminds us that while we trust in God’s presence in all circumstances, we are also called to steward our communities responsibly. Preparing for crisis is an act of care for our congregations and a commitment to ensuring that all feel safe in worship.

Congregational leaders and communicators are encouraged to review these resources and begin the process of assembling a crisis team. If you have questions or need further guidance, you can reach out to Aaron Cooper, ELCA Senior Director of Strategic Communications at Aaron.Cooper@elca.org.

We encourage all congregations to take this proactive step toward safety, resilience, and preparedness.

ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and SocietyComment