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Does your church have a security plan?

Posted at 10:10 PM, Jun 19, 2015
and last updated 2015-06-19 22:10:30-04

RICHMOND, Va. -- United Nations Church International experienced a scare Thursday night after police had to be called about a man who was beating on the door and reportedly yelling racial slurs during a service honoring the victims of the Charleston church tragedy.

"When people go in and disrupt a place of worship, it's sad," Reverend J. Dorsey Houston said.

But luckily for the congregation, the church located on Midlothian Turnpike has a pastor who specializes in sanctuary security.

Houston, a consultant for church security, said the massacre in Charleston and the incident on Midlothian Turnpike are stark reminders that no place is safe -- even places of worship.

United Nations Church International

United Nations Church International

"Right now churches are called a soft-target," Houston said.

Houston urges all churches no matter the size, to invest in security.

"It's not a matter of what is going to happen, not a matter of if it's going to happen. But when it's going to happen," said the consultant.

WTVR CBS 6 spoke to leaders of churches near United Nations on Midlothian Turnpike. Church brass did not want to go on camera, but said new security measures are being introduced.

Houston said that it is a sad day that while studying the Bible you have to look over your shoulder.

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