Experts: Churches Big and Small Need Security Plan

By Associated Press Writer
Cheryl Wittenauer
Tue, Mar. 10 2009

ST. LOUIS – Megachurches with large audiences have long planned for emergencies, but smaller churches often aren't ready for a crisis, experts say.

First Baptist Church in Maryville, Ill., where the Rev. Fred Winters was shot and killed during a sermon Sunday was an exception. It initiated a security and emergency plan six months ago, but church officials would not say what it entailed.

The plan did not prevent an attack. Terry J. Sedlacek, 27, was charged Monday with first-degree murder and aggravated battery in the assault that killed Winters and left Sedlacek and two congregants who tackled him with stab wounds.

Still, emergency plans are important, said First Baptist associate pastor Mark Jones. the rest