The Christian Recorder - Updates from the AME Church Director of Global Security

Dear Brothers and Sisters of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Once again, the United States has lost many lives at the hands of one who committed a violent atrocity.  In New Orleans, Louisiana, a man drove a vehicle at high speed from the intersection of Canal Street and Bourbon Street, along Bourbon Street, killing at least 14 people and injuring at least 30 more.  While the exact motivation remains under investigation, there was a flag upon his vehicle that is affiliated with an international terrorist organization.   Here is what is know and why it may be pertinent to us: The suspect was identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42 year-old US-born citizen. Presently, the act is being considered inspired by the foreign terrorist organization associated with the flag upon his vehicle, although the suspect was a US-citizen. Recently, there have been calls for "lone-wolf" attacks from foreign-terrorist organizations ; consequently, United States law enforcement entities at all levels have increased their presence and vigilance. What should we do?  As we move forward from this tragedy, we should be prepared but not paranoid.  Statistically, odds as relatively low that any of us would be victims of violence; nevertheless, there are factors which make us attractive "soft(er) targets," particularly to Racially or Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremists.   Please have a plan and communicate this with the necessary leaders of your individual churches.   Be safe in your worship gatherings , as well as when coming and going.   Stay in communication with Presiding Elders and Bishops or directly with our Global Security to avail yourselves of training opportunities. If you would like further information about this matter or if you would like to begin security preparations, please contact me via email at ACromwell@amecfo.org.  I thank you and I look forward to working with you to keep our denomination safe.  Have a blessed New Year! Respectfully yours, Ako Cromwell Director of Global Security 305-710-5653 Watch our interview with Mr. Cromwell here on tip to protect your houses of worship.

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