Vicars in Britain have now been advised not to wear their collars in public to avoid being targeted by an Islamist terrorist.
Other new security measures recommended include stationing a security guard outside churches, installing CCTV cameras and having vicars carry personal attack alarms.
The guidelines, issued by National Churchwatch in a 12-page document, say that smaller churches in rural areas have an increased risk. Churches are advised to make sure it’s doors can be bolted and that parishioners are educated to be alert to any suspicious happenings.
One vicar, who spoke anonymously to the Daily Mail, said “I’ve also been told not to be alone in the church but it would cost too much to pay someone to come with me to open up each day.”
The UK recently announced that it was allocating £2.4million ($3.2 million) to increase safety in all places of worship.
The most recent issue of the Islamic State’s magazine Dabiq called “Break the Cross,” featured scathing articles about Christianity and the Pope.
