The recent tragic event that took place at Annunciation Parish and School in Minneapolis reminds us once again of the need for vigilance in our approach to the security of our diocesan parishes and schools.
The Catholic Diocese of Arlington maintains a holistic set of protocols to protect students and parishioners and to ensure a safe environment for all. At the behest of Bishop Michael F. Burbidge, all diocesan pastors and school leaders have committed significant attention and resources in recent years to address critical security needs. All parishes and schools expedited full compliance with 38 specific school security standards that cover, among other things, access control, badging, patrolling, perimeter security, response protocols, security audits, training, and vehicle access and monitoring.
A shared commitment to safety and security from all our parishes and schools remains critical, even beyond cameras, alarms and secure entry ways. The challenges to safety and security are dynamic and must always be met with alert and diligent watchfulness. It is always an appropriate time to review safety and security protocols, and the diocese regularly revisits these protocols in light of state and local mandates and in coordination with experts in the field. The safety and security of all diocesan parishes and schools remain of paramount importance.
