Across America, churches meant to be sanctuaries are facing deadly threats in the 21st century, and safeguarding congregations from attacks has become increasingly challenging.

Church security is a hugely complicated field, experts say, one that brings no one-size-fits-all solutions and few easy answers. Churches range in size from tiny congregations in storefronts to conglomerate-style enterprises in amphitheaters so big they feel like sports arenas — all with unique layouts, from the placement of windows and hallways to the size and configuration of rooms.

Unlike some public buildings, churches need open access to carry out their functions, said Michael Toomey, the president of Secom, a Columbia firm that provides protective technologies for government agencies and houses of worship ac

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