A deadly church shooting that killed 26 people and injured dozens is weighing heavy on the minds of church leaders in Omaha.
"If we are not aware we are like sheep wandering around oblivious to what's around us," said Security Director and Pastor John Houston.
Now more than ever church leaders say it's time to step up security.
"That starts with a team of people who look at the security of their building, how to respond, and the best way to respond," Houston said.
At Brookside Church, Pastor and Security Director John Houston says it's about preparing for the worst.
"It is absolutely essential that every church have a security plan,” Houston said.
Once seen as one of the safest places to gather, in recent years churches have become easy targets.
"We have people's lives at stake and they are counting on being able to enter our doors and have a safe environment to praise and worship Jesus Christ," Houston said.
With gun violence of the rise Brookside is hosting a Sheep Dog seminar for church and community leaders.
"This seminar is designed to make people aware of what's going on so they can make plans and help give them first steps towards solution," Houston said.
Since gunmen prey on the weak, Houston says it essential to be knowledgeable and well equipped.
"Churches need to be more aware than they are, and have been in the past,” Houston said.
