Free Macon seminar offers safety training for houses of worship October 8

The training at Bibb Mount Zion Baptist Church will include law enforcement presentations and grant information. Registration is open, but seating is limited.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — A free seminar in Macon will offer safety training and grant information for leaders of houses of worship on Thursday, October 8.

According to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the “Protecting Houses of Worship” seminar will be held at Bibb Mount Zion Baptist Church on Avondale Mill Road. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the event is scheduled to end around 12:30 p.m.

Federal, state and local law enforcement will give presentations during the training.

“We strongly encourage faith-based leaders to participate and gain valuable insights into best practices for security, as well as information about available grants to help ensure houses of worship remain safe,” U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes said.

The training is open to registered leaders or their designated representatives from houses of worship, nonprofits and community organizations.

There is no cost or registration deadline, but seating is limited. Participants can register online.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has organized the training since 2017, bringing together faith leaders and people involved in security at churches, synagogues, mosques and other places of worship. Topics have included safety, security, emergency planning, hate crimes and managing threats.

For more information, contact U.S. Attorney’s Office Law Enforcement Coordinator Dion Lyons at dion.lyons@usdoj.gov or (478) 733-9659.