BENTON – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office recently announced information related to safety and security programming for local churches.

As a result of the overwhelming interest, the sheriff’s office, in cooperation with the Franklin County Office of Emergency Management and Communications, will be hosting a House of Worship Training Seminar. The goal of the seminar is to assist faith-based organizations in preparing to appropriately respond to safety and security threats.

The seminar is designed to provide practical preparedness information for clergy, pastors, church leaders, deacons, security team members and official congregational representatives. Experienced law enforcement professionals will lead the session, offering real world insights into prevention strategies and emergency response planning. The goal is to strengthen safety protocols without compromising the open and welcoming nature of religious gatherings.

The seminar will be held at the Eagles Nest at the Lake in West Frankfort on Saturday, April 11, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Pre-registration is encouraged and can be completed by contacting the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office at 618-438-4841 or by submitting an email to kbacon@sherifffranklincounty.com.