MINNEAPOLIS — The investigation continues into a deadly attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. 

The attack hits close to home for many faith leaders in the Twin Cities who are still reeling after the deadly attack at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis.

Ethan Roberts, the deputy executive director at the Jewish Community Relations Council for Minnesota and the Dakotas, says security has become a daily topic of conversation for faith leaders.

“This latest attack is yet another community, another state that is going through something that is an unbearable loss,” Roberts says.

“We live in a world where most people are good, but there is evil out there.”

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) has made several security upgrades over the last few decades.

Roberts says one of their most recent upgrades is their sallyport security entrance that requires all visitors to check in at the security desk before they can access the building.

“It has been a great upgrade for us,” Roberts says.

The JCRC also employs a full-time security team that has access to dozens of cameras and license plate readers that help security officials screen vehicles as they enter the parking lot.

Roberts says the JCRC security team provides security assistance for several Jewish-based organizations and buildings across the Twin Cities.

“This is kind of the hub where a lot of information and tips get sent out to other faith leaders and law enforcement,” Roberts says inside the JCRC’s main security office.

This support extends far beyond the Jewish faith.

Roberts says the JCRC often shares tips, information and security strategies with other faith leaders, including Christians, Muslims and Hindus.

“Right now, we are having active conversations with several leaders of the Hindu community. They have a lot of concerns about security that are common with us. We are all in this together,” Roberts says.

A spokesperson for the Catholic Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis agrees that faith leaders from several faiths are now having active discussions about security following the attack at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis.

Joe Cybert, the Director of Safety and Security at the Basilica of Saint Mary, agrees that security is top of mind after these recent attacks on places of worship.

He sent KARE 11 the following statement:

“My focus is to keep those who come to our parish safe. We take our security protocols seriously, continually assess their effectiveness and improve processes when necessary. My heartfelt prayers are extended to those who have recently been impacted by violence at their place of worship.”

“Safety is central to ensuring that all who come to The Basilica feel both secure and welcomed. We are working closely with staff and local law enforcement to take a proactive approach focused on planning and prevention. Our safety and security strategy is comprehensive—strengthening staffing and technology resources to support a plan that is inclusive of best practices and a welcoming environment. Our commitment is to maintain a campus that is safe and secure for our parishioners and guests.”