Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services
Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month.
These findings highlight a growing concern among faith communities about safety in shared worship spaces, and underscore the need for new approaches to help institutions create secure and welcoming environments.
Additional key findings include:
- Safety concerns are higher at larger congregations: 32% of attendees at larger places of worship (500+ attendees) say they are very concerned about their safety, compared to 18% of those who attend smaller establishments.
- Younger generations feel the greatest concern: 55% of Gen Z and 61% of Millennials express safety concerns at in-person services, compared to Gen X (40%) and Boomers (25%). Younger respondents are also more likely to adjust their attendance due to safety concerns: 53% of Gen Z and Millennials say they’ve changed their habits, compared to Gen X (36%) and Boomers (14%).
- Security improvements are underway, but gaps remain: More than half of attendees (54%) say their place of worship has upgraded security in the past year. However, one in three (33%) still rate security measures at their institution as minimal or non-existent.
At Verkada, the trend is already visible: over the past year, the number of religious institutions adopting Verkada’s security technology has increased by 65%, as more communities take proactive steps to promote safety and peace of mind for their communities.
“Places of worship are essential gathering places with three in 10 U.S. adults attending religious services regularly, according to a recent Gallup Poll," said retired police lieutenant and Verkada Public Safety Advisor, Ben Jones. “For faith leaders ensuring the
physical security of their congregations isn’t just about protection, but about preserving the sense of peace and belonging these spaces represent.”
Learn more and access the full report here.