Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 13 June 2023

These updates are shared to help raise the situational awareness of Faith-Based organizations to best defend against, and mitigate the impacts from all-hazards threats including physical security, cybersecurity, and natural disasters.

Where Pro-Choice Groups Chose Vandalism

Pregnancy centers were attacked in 24 states in the aftermath of the Supreme Court decision on abortion rights. More than 50 clinics across the country reported graffiti and broken windows, with damage sometimes in the tens of thousands of dollars. Six clinics were also set on fire.

Analyst Comments: Most of these attacks occurred due to a change in federal law. While the national threat seems to have subsided, the threat may increase locally as the debate shifts to the states. Facilities must be aware of flashpoints in their state and region.

Abundant Life Church in Warrenton destroyed in fire

The pastor of the Missouri church said he was told that the fire is being investigated as arson, but neither police nor fire officials would confirm that detail. The pastor told the media that the fire occurred less than 24 hours after an incident at Sunday service. “We had an intruder that came into the service, and he was very disruptive.  We didn’t know what his intentions were … When he walked out of the church I followed him out and locked the doors.  This intruder came to the pastor’s house two days ago at 5 a.m. unannounced. It was the same man that came to the church Sunday morning.”

Analyst Comments: FB-ISAO recommends suspicious activities should be reported to law enforcement and trigger appropriate temporary increases in security measures. Refer to CISA’s Mitigating Attacks on Houses of Worship Security Guide and Fire As A Weapon Action Guide (cisa.gov).

St. Louis County church Pride display vandalized

A Pride month display outside of a Missouri church was vandalized over the weekend. The lead pastor said the incident won’t slow down the church from becoming a symbol in acceptance and inclusion.

Analyst Comments: FB-ISAO has reported numerous acts of vandalism at church Pride displays around the country. While the vandalism in this case was not severe, those responsible for security should be on the alert for vandalism as vandalism may be the first step in an escalation of attacks.