State Troopers Join Fight to Protect Texas Places of Worship

Every Sunday when I walk into church, I pray for friends who are sick or hurting and for those who may be struggling mentally. But these days, another thought often crosses my mind, safety. After seeing story after story of shootings across the country, including one just this past weekend when a man crashed into a church and opened fire, I can’t help but feel the world has gotten scarier.

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Texas Steps Up To Keep Churches Safe

For decades, I used to sit behind our city’s police chief during service and felt protected. Now, evil can show up anywhere, and Texas has had its share of church shootings too. That’s why Governor Greg Abbott’s new push to protect places of worship hits home for me.

Governor Abbott Directs DPS To Protect Places Of Worship

Governor Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to bolster security at churches, synagogues, and other faith-based organizations. DPS will partner with local, state, and federal law enforcement to identify threats before they become tragedies.

This new mission will use Texas Highway Patrol troopers, Criminal Investigations Division special agents, and Texas Rangers, backed by DPS’ Homeland Security Division. The goal is to detect danger early and stop attacks before they happen.

“Places of worship are sacred,” said Governor Abbott. “We will marshal all resources necessary to safeguard our places of faith.”

Texans Asked To Stay Alert And Report Concerns

One of the most important tools we have is the iWatchTexas Community Reporting System. If you ever hear someone, whether it’s a coworker, neighbor, or even a family member, making threats about hurting others, report it. It’s quick, anonymous, and could save lives.

• Mobile app: iWatchTexas (free for iPhone and Android)
• Website: www.iwatchtx.org
• Phone: 1-844-643-2251

Reports take about five minutes, and every tip is reviewed by law enforcement analysts. If something feels off, don’t hesitate. And remember, if it’s an emergency, call 911.

Faith And Safety Can Coexist

I still believe church should be a refuge, a place for healing, hope, and worship. But staying alert doesn’t mean living in fear; it means protecting the people we love.

Let’s watch out for our families, neighbors, coworkers, and friends. If you see or hear something that doesn’t seem right, say something. Together, we can help keep our churches safe and continue to worship without fear.

Read More: How Texas Is Tackling The New World Screwworm Threat