How To Defend Your Church

In a world where safety concerns are ever-present, the need for robust security measures extends even to places of worship. This episode features Ken Alexandra, founder of Agape Tactical, a former Nashville police officer and FBI Violent Crimes Task Force member. Alexandra shares his expertise on how churches and individuals can proactively enhance their security and situational awareness, drawing from his extensive background in law enforcement and personal experience.

From Police Officer to Church Security Expert

Ken Alexandra's journey into church security began unexpectedly. After serving with the Nashville Metropolitan Police Department for 22 years, including a stint as an academy instructor teaching hand-to-hand combat and firearms, and working on the FBI's Violent Crimes Task Force, he transitioned into a new calling. His police career, which he describes as one of the greatest joys due to the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives daily, provided a solid foundation for his current work.

In 2009, while attending Cotton Station Church, his pastor, who was also the president of the Southern Baptist Convention, approached him with a unique request. Even before church security became a prominent concern, the pastor, a "forethinker," asked Alexandra to set up a safety ministry for their growing church, which had a large children's population. Alexandra, with his extensive background, was deemed "suited and equipped" for the task. What started as a part-time offering for his church quickly grew into a full-time commitment, eventually forcing him to choose between his police career and his burgeoning security ministry. He chose the latter, driven by the increasing need for specialized security in faith-based organizations.