Trained and Prepared: CrossPoint Church Members Had Taken USCCA Church Security Course Days Before Attack

By Rob Chadwick

A tragedy at CrossPointe Church in Wayne, Michigan, was narrowly averted two weeks ago thanks to the swift, courageous actions of ordinary citizens who chose to take responsibility for their own security and that of their community. Last week, I had the privilege of visiting with several members of the security team, hearing firsthand about their experience and actions. This incident, involving a potential mass shooter who was thwarted before entering the sanctuary, vividly demonstrates the profound value of preparedness and proactive defense.

Remarkably, none of the heroes who acted decisively at CrossPointe had any law enforcement or military experience. Instead, they were everyday people who had simply taken the initiative to educate themselves and prepare for an unthinkable scenario. Three of these brave individuals had attended the USCCA training event, “Protecting Your Church,” just days earlier. That session, held the previous Thursday, helped equip these volunteers with essential knowledge and skills that proved crucial in real-time.

The event at CrossPointe Church reminds us that a strong safety team does not need members with military or law enforcement backgrounds to be effective. Commitment, education, and a willingness to act decisively are often enough. The safety team’s rapid and coordinated response, informed by their training, undoubtedly saved lives, particularly considering that the sanctuary was filled with children who had just joyfully completed Vacation Bible School and were performing the songs they had learned for the congregation.

Additionally, the heroism displayed by the church’s Deacon deserves special acknowledgment. Despite running late to church that day and initially encountering the would-be gunman alone, the Deacon immediately recognized something was amiss. Although he was unarmed and had no formal security training, he bravely confronted the threat head-on, utilizing the only effective weapon he had. Realizing he needed to prevent the attacker from entering the church, he used his truck to attempt to disable the shooter before he could reach the congregation.

This extraordinary courage, combined with the preparedness of the safety team, showcases the power of ordinary individuals who step up to protect others. It also highlights an essential truth: effective defense relies not only on equipment or experience but most significantly on awareness, preparation, and decisive action.

The CrossPointe Church incident should serve as a powerful reminder for all congregations and community groups across the nation. Comprehensive and accessible training, such as that provided by the USCCA’s “Protecting Your Church” program, empowers everyday citizens to act confidently and competently in critical moments.

Let’s honor the courage displayed at CrossPointe Church by committing ourselves anew to being prepared, aware, and ready to act to safeguard our communities. Their bravery sets a powerful example of what is possible when ordinary citizens choose to stand prepared, united, and vigilant.

 

Rob Chadwick is the Head of Personal & Public Safety for the USCCA for the United States Concealed Carry Association. A 30-year law enforcement veteran and former head of the Tactical Training Unit at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Rob has trained elite teams, led SWAT operations, and protected six U.S. Attorneys General. A recipient of the FBI Director’s Medal of Excellence for Training, he now empowers everyday Americans with the knowledge and skills to defend and protect.