I. INTRODUCTION

At Circumspect Group Inc., we exist to empower evangelical mission boards, churches, and field workers with the tools, intelligence, and training necessary to operate safely in a world of increasing complexity and threat. Among the most vulnerable environments are houses of worship—places intended to welcome the stranger, comfort the afflicted, and offer sanctuary to all.

As a nonprofit security advisory organization, we enthusiastically endorse the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) publication, The Power of Hello Guide for Houses of Worship. This concise yet potent guide offers an actionable framework—called OHNO (Observe, Hello, Navigate, Obtain Help)—that aligns directly with our emphasis on early intervention, compassionate vigilance, and community-based threat mitigation.

This paper introduces the OHNO methodology, examines its relevance to Christian faith communities, and supplements its strategies with specific, field-tested verbal de-escalation techniques to ensure your staff and volunteers are equipped to act wisely and safely.

II. ENDORSING THE POWER OF HELLO

The Power of Hello provides faith-based organizations with a low-barrier, human-centered approach to proactive security. At its core, it reminds us that simple human engagement—acknowledging others with a smile, a greeting, and a presence—can deter violence, reveal hidden threats, and foster community resilience.

The OHNO Framework:

  • Observe – Be alert to behaviors, not just appearances. This includes unusual interest in security features, odd loitering patterns, inappropriate dress for the context, or aggressive demeanor.
  • Hello – The act of saying “Hello” can break the isolation of a would-be assailant or detect those who intend harm. It demonstrates awareness and presence without confrontation.
  • Navigate the Risk – Assess the situation. Is the individual merely lost, or do they appear evasive, hostile, or focused on targets or exits?
  • Obtain Help – Empower staff to escalate concerns quickly and clearly. This may involve notifying leadership, contacting security, or calling law enforcement.

We commend CISA for providing a framework that honors both the welcoming mission of the church and the imperative for security readiness. We recommend churches integrate OHNO into greeter training, usher duties, and children’s ministry protocols.

III. SUPPLEMENTING OHNO: VERBAL DE-ESCALATION TECHNIQUES

While the Power of Hello is powerful in prevention, staff and volunteers must also be trained in how to verbally de-escalate tense or threatening situations. The goal is to lower agitation, prevent violence, and buy time for help to arrive. Below are specific verbal techniques compatible with faith-based environments.

1. The Calm Voice & Body Posture

  • Speak in a slow, even, non-threatening tone.
  • Maintain an open stance, hands visible, and avoid sudden movements.
  • Use active listening and let the person talk without interruption.

2. Acknowledgment Without Agreement

  • Phrases like “I hear you,” or “That sounds frustrating” validate emotion without endorsing behavior.
  • Avoid phrases that might inflame: “Calm down” or “Relax.”

3. Offer Choices, Not Ultimatums

  • Give the person agency: “Would you prefer to sit over here or in the back?” or “Can I get someone to speak with you privately?”
  • This subtly redirects control and eases confrontation.

4. Set Boundaries Respectfully

  • “I’m happy to talk with you, but I can’t do that while you’re shouting.”
  • “Let’s step outside so we can speak in a quieter place.”

5. Use the “Five Second Rule”

  • After asking a question or setting a boundary, allow a pause. People often need a moment to process.
  • Silence can be a powerful diffuser.

6. Name & Refer

  • Ask for their name and use it respectfully: “Mr. Jones, I want to help you.”
  • Refer to people of authority calmly: “Let me bring our pastor/security director to assist you.”

IV. IMPLEMENTATION RECOMMENDATIONS

For the Power of Hello and these de-escalation strategies to be effective, churches must:

  • Integrate OHNO training into annual safety briefings and volunteer orientations.
  • Role-play greeting and risk navigation scenarios quarterly.
  • Partner with local law enforcement to conduct joint walkthroughs and simulations.
  • Develop a written policy on documenting suspicious contacts and reporting thresholds.

We also encourage houses of worship to use the sample questions from the Guide:

  • “Welcome. Is this your first time here?”
  • “Can I help you find something?”
  • “How can we make today more meaningful for you?”

V. CONCLUSION

The Power of Hello reminds us that a vigilant community is not one of fear, but of love in action. When we combine thoughtful observation with intentional verbal engagement, we preserve the openness of the sanctuary while defending it from harm. Circumspect Group Inc. urges all Christian ministries to adopt and internalize this guide, and we stand ready to assist in training, implementation, and emergency planning.

Let us greet with wisdom, watch with compassion, and protect with conviction—for the sake of the Gospel and the safety of God’s people.

Listen now…

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