LEESBURG, Va. (PRWEB)
October 06, 2020

Faith-Based Organizations continue to be as vulnerable today as they were in years past when there were notable attacks on people and places of faith. Many organizations are trying to better understand their threat environment and what responsible security looks like. It was only two years ago when one of the most horrific attacks on the community of faith occurred at the Tree of Life Synagogue. As recently stated by the Homeland Security Advisory Committee (HSAC) Subcommittee for the Prevention of Targeted Violence Against Faith-Based Organizations, “Securing a congregation is a bottom-up process, and there are no one-size-fits-all security plans… While each place of worship will need to create a system that suits its individual resources, culture, and comfort level, there are concrete steps FBOs can take to enhance security.” And in remarks to the U.S. Senate in September 2020, FBI Director Wray noted, “Many… violent extremists, both domestic and international, are motivated and inspired by a mix of ideological, sociopolitical, and personal grievances against their targets, which recently have more and more included large public gatherings, houses of worship… Trends may shift, but the underlying drivers for domestic violent extremism—such as perceptions of government or law enforcement overreach, sociopolitical conditions, racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, misogyny, and reactions to legislative actions—remain constant. As stated above, the FBI is most concerned about lone offender attacks, primarily shootings…”

During the height of the pandemic, on May 22, 2020, President Trump declared “houses of worship, churches, synagogues and mosques” to be “essential places that provide essential services.” People gather at FBOs to do all sorts of things, to include worship, but also to socialize, attend classes, teach their children, provide community-based services like job search support, receive mental health services, and other activities. In fact, the Faith-Based Information Sharing and Analysis Organization, along with its Board of Advisors, asked President Trump to formally designate an additional sector of critical infrastructure by establishing a Faith-Based Sector to include places of worship, food pantries, schools, and other charities and faith-based organizations (broadly, FBOs).

Further, the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic is a complex and blended threat impacting members and the broader faith-based and charity community in numerous ways and that continues to impact security and response, both to manmade and natural threats.

• Protests. Whether seen as supportive of protests – directly, logistically, or as sanctuaries or meeting places – or if seen as being opposed to protests, FBOs have been attacked from both sides. Given recent events, ongoing protests, a tense political election season, and other considerations, protests may pose direct and indirect risks to FBOs.
• Disgruntled Individuals. Individuals who do not agree with positions taken by an FBO during periods of closure and reopening may take action against those organizations or others. As FBOs reopen and welcome back individuals, it is possible that some may have heightened sensitivities regarding these issues and may not respond well to personnel attempting to enforce safety actions.
• U.S. Elections and Events. As election-related activities and rhetoric increase in the final weeks of the election season, it is possible that political rallies may see protests and counter-protests – aimed at politicians, groups, or places of worship where events may be held. Such concerns are not limited to any party or individual but are a possibility for any political event occurring at or near an FBO. Additionally, given the possibility of a prolonged period of time to identify winners from November’s elections, tensions may be elevated for some time, and after results are announced. FBOs should remain mindful of local events and tensions as they assess threats and security needs.

It is with this sentiment that the Faith-Based Information Sharing and Analysis Organization (FB-ISAO) announces the resumption of our 2020 Workshop Series focusing on Hostile Events Preparedness. Like other events affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, these workshops will be offered virtually. With the process formally starting in July 2019, FB-ISAO led a collaborative planning process among the ISAO, U.S. Government partners, and state and local government and law enforcement partners from around the United States.

“Faith-Based Organizations and especially houses of worship continue to be exposed and targets of violence. They need training and resources to increase their resiliency and preparedness. FB-ISAO regional workshops provide an opportunity for all who attend to interact with one another and to discuss best practices and opportunities for improvement regarding physical security preparedness.” – Senior Cantor of Temple Rodef Shalom of Falls Church, Virginia and FB-ISAO Advisory Board member.

2020 Workshop Series objectives include:

Provide a forum for faith-based and charity organizations to enhance their threat awareness and preparedness relating to potential physical attacks at their facilities.

• Use a hostile events scenario to provide participants an opportunity to interact with one another and discuss issues, concerns, best practices and other salient points regarding physical security preparedness, coordination and response among participants.
• Use a hostile events scenario to provide participants with greater awareness of U.S. Government and local government resources, guidance and best practices relating to hostile events and physical security to help inform organizational preparedness, security & resilience.
• Exercises are a vital part of preparedness and security. The workshops will educate participants on the Hostile Events Attack Cycle and challenge them to consider their preparedness and ability to respond to an enduring threat challenge facing all organizations – to include places of worship and charities.

“We are not far removed from recent attacks against FBOs in Pennsylvania, Texas, and California, and a seeming daily occurrence of violence and vandalism aimed at places of worship. Unfortunately, combined with the complexities of the pandemic, many remain in a reactive mode and may be drawing the wrong lessons from some of our recent tragedies. In these exercises, FB-ISAO won’t advocate for or against having armed security, for example, and the workshops won’t be presentations. Rather, these workshops are an opportunity for participants to share and learn from peers and public sector partners about best practices, lessons learned, challenges and key considerations. There are best practices but there is no ‘cookie-cutter’ solution for security. Through these workshops, we hope participants come out more informed, more aware, and more prepared to go back and mature their organization’s security and resilience in a way that respects their specific needs. The community of faith is stronger when we work together. These workshops are one of the key ways FB-ISAO strives to encourage that.” – Mayya Saab, Executive Director, FB-ISAO.

Among other government entities, fusion centers and partners, FB-ISAO is grateful for the partnership of the Virginia Fusion Center and the InfraGard National Capital Region chapter.

Stay aware of workshop dates and locations here, where you can also sign up for FB-ISAO’s free Hostile Events Preparedness webinars, provided by homeland security risk management experts from Gate 15, an FB-ISAO sponsor.

Workshop Schedule (developing):

13, 14 and 15 Oct: Virginia – Session 1

20, 21 and 22 Oct: Virginia – Session 2

12 Nov: Wisconsin

Other 2020 events may include Pennsylvania and others.

FB-ISAO is a membership-driven organization that is open to US citizens of all faiths and their supporting organizations. The Faith-Based Information Sharing and Analysis Organization serves as a trusted partner at the center of a national network of faith-based organizations and associations that have been informed and equipped to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from incidents arising from all-hazards, ensuring the resilience and continuity of these important community assets that include Cybersecurity incidents, Physical security incidents, Public health incidents and Natural disasters. Find us at FB-ISAO and join the conversation on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Contact: Mayya Saab, Faith-Based Information Sharing and Analysis Organization

Phone: 703.963.3459

Email: Mayya@faithbased-isao.org

The Virginia Fusion Center’s VFC SHIELD program provides a conduit for information exchange between citizens, businesses, organizations and public safety agencies. VFC SHIELD provides information on personal safety, crime prevention measures, suspicious activity recognition, safety for houses of worship among others. Through training, preparation, and situational awareness, individuals can utilize this information to better protect themselves, their families and their communities.

Contact: Dante Robinson, Special Agent, Training and Outreach, FLO & SHIELD Coordinator

Phone: (804) 674-2204

Email: dante.robinson@vsp.virginia.gov

This book is for anyone searching to find the Lord’s help during these challenging times.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (PRWEB)
October 05, 2020

Author James A. Durham guides readers through their personal renewal in Activating Restoration Promises: Seven Promises of the Lord ($18.99, paperback, 9781632214935; $9.99, e-book, 9781632214942).

The year of 2020 has been a turbulent one for everybody, and many are wondering what comes next. What if you chose to take advantage of the promises God has already made so you can begin your life anew? The laborers are few in spite of a bountiful harvest, and it is time to take the next step.

“This book is for anyone searching to find the Lord’s help during these challenging times. It is age appropriate for both adults and young people. If you are searching for answers about rising above your circumstances, this is the book for you,” said Durham.

James Durham has served in ministry for more than 53 years, including 13 years as a pastor and church planter and almost 30 years as an active duty army Chaplain. Durham is a graduate of Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas with a Master’s degree in Theology.

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Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the world’s largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Activating Restoration Promises is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
October 05, 2020

“The United Satanic Pinball Machine”: an enthralling read about the author’s rebirth from the devil’s torment that led him to become God’s priest and a true disciple of Christ. “The United Satanic Pinball Machine” is the creation of published author Anthony Taranto.

Taranto shares, “At twenty years of age, David Anthony Collins was running a successful construction/contracting company, completed six semesters of college, drove around in a brand-new Toyota 4×4 truck, and dating a model. Then his mother took him to see a psychiatrist.

“After a thirty-three-year battle with Satan’s mental health system, his name is now Anthony Taranto. He graduated with a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from Penn State University, became a Franciscan priest in the Roman Catholic religion, is Jesus Christ’s stupendous little brother, is the angel of the church in Philadelphia in the Holy Bibles book of Revelation, and is the author. This book tells the story of the incredible, difficult, and amazing journey that he took to become what he is today.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Anthony Taranto’s new book is a testament to the Lord’s saving grace that redeemed a man from the clutches of evil and brought him into a life of fulfillment and godliness.

This book is a powerful declaration of God’s love and mercy in the author’s life despite the ordeals and sins of his past.

View the synopsis of “The United Satanic Pinball Machine” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “The United Satanic Pinball Machine” at traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “The United Satanic Pinball Machine,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
October 02, 2020

“52 Plus One”: a brilliant tool into achieving a God-blessed life through positivity and faith in His Word. “52 Plus One” is the creation of published author Lee D. Ross, Sr., a college graduate, including a Bible College Graduate as well. Being faithful for thirty-three years to many GHT ministries, from Sunday School Teacher to assistant pastor, he humbly serves as a man who does the will of God. He has a passion for outreach evangelism and a heart for souls; going beyond the four walls and witnessing Jesus to this generation.

Ross, Sr. shares, “This is a God-inspired book of scriptural based positive thoughts. Each section of this devotional book will be encouraging and uplifting to your spirit. This book is based off God’s Holy Word. ‘And Jesus answered him, saying, it is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God’ (Luke 4:4).

“I am encouraged to write this book from one of my favorite scriptures. The Word of God reads in Philippians 4:8,

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

“I am convinced that you can’t live a positive life with a negative attitude. I would hope and pray that these positive thoughts would be a blessing to you, your family, and anyone else whose God’s Holy Spirit leads you to share this book.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Lee D. Ross, Sr.’s new book is a captivating literature shared in the hopes of inspiring people to look on the bright side of life and righteous living and encourage them to surrender their heart to God.

View a synopsis of “52 Plus One” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “52 Plus One” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “52 Plus One,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
October 02, 2020

“A Little Dose of Grace of Jesus: Volume 2”: a touching book that contains true perspectives and notions in life that proclaim the love and blessedness of God. “A Little Dose of Grace of Jesus: Volume 2” is the creation of published author CeCe, a devout follower of God.

CeCe shares, “These books will always go back to my parents who brought life into this body. In loving memories to Lee Kenneth Carter and Jeannette Bryant Carter. For the learning and teaching of Christ first and then general living and working for the things that life has brought forth unto me. For without them, none of this could have been possible for me. For as I walk daily, I’m walking in the anointing of them. When I’m operating business, I’m being that daddy; and when I’m sewing, I’m being that mother. And the blessing of God falls down on me at all times in my life because of them. For without the parents that God had given me and my sisters and brother, well, let’s say we could have turned out much differently. Hopefully our children and their children will follow within the footsteps that they had laid out before us as well.

“Enjoy the healing and blessing that God has given unto us, and give the praise back to God for what he has done, and the ministry will carry on in books of the grace and mercy of God in our lives. For God has never failed us but people always do, and He is always there to repair us from those its within our lives. The its are the people and places and the things that wasn’t good for us but we felt we needed them anyway, and God opens up our eyes to how they didn’t benefit us at all in our lives and puts us in a better place than ever after they were long gone from us.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, CeCe’s new book presents real circumstances and wisdom inspired by the grace of God that nurtures life and brings healing to the soul.

This book imparts a profound reflection on the essence of life that is lived according to the will of God.

View the synopsis of “A Little Dose of Grace of Jesus: Volume 2” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase“A Little Dose of Grace of Jesus: Volume 2” at traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “A Little Dose of Grace of Jesus: Volume 2,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
September 30, 2020

“Recovery Code: Your Alpha Omega Transformation Faith Belief Therapy Post Traumatic Slave & Sin Disorder”: a soul-refreshing handbook that urges the readers to take a walk in life, enabling them to reach their desired destination. “Recovery Code: Your Alpha Omega Transformation Faith Belief Therapy Post Traumatic Slave & Sin Disorder” is the creation of published author Carlo Bodiongan RN C, a professional registered nurse, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, of about twenty years who practiced in the field of psychiatry and geriatric nursing. He enjoys his spare time writing the revelation of the many good news of his great teacher.

Bodiongan writes, “This is a manual guide that would direct your path to become the evidence of my Great Teacher—Jesus Christ of Nazareth result of his/her redemption in you. That is for you to experience his glory, richness, and love. For the work of your salvation has been accomplished. He said, ‘It is finished.’ There is no reason for you to struggle in damnation if you only know how to evaluate what is the tampering of his/her proof in the victory over sin by the many others who are lost in translation. That you must learn to cancel this placebo effect and the many false reality as you are being tested in what you asked for others of bread. You are given a stone. Open your mind to what is the divine therapeutic milieu for you are designed to be beneficial. In this guide, you would be able to claim your prize as you are the true heir and inheritor of this earth. Do not be deceived anymore.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Carlo Bodiongan RN C’s new book is a masterful account that will answer the spiritual questions of the readers as the author unfolds the reality and truths about God’s plan for everyone.

With this purpose, Bodiongan aims to open the minds of the readers so they may be able to see themselves as the inheritor of God’s Kingdom.

View a synopsis of “Recovery Code: Your Alpha Omega Transformation Faith Belief Therapy Post Traumatic Slave & Sin Disorder” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “Recovery Code: Your Alpha Omega Transformation Faith Belief Therapy Post Traumatic Slave & Sin Disorder” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “Recovery Code: Your Alpha Omega Transformation Faith Belief Therapy Post Traumatic Slave & Sin Disorder,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
September 30, 2020

“What Does Jesus Say To All Children Everywhere?”: a sweet and charming children’s book that aims to help young Christians make prayer a part of their daily routine. “What Does Jesus Say To All Children Everywhere?” is the creation of published author, Betty Lou Mann, a retired elementary school teacher.

Mann writes: “‘Let the children come to me,’ the Lord Jesus says (Matthew 19:14).

‘Daily prayers we’ll bring to thee,’ all the children said.

Do three DAILY prayers help bring Jesus and the children together? What do you think?

‘What Does Jesus Say to All Children Everywhere’ encourages children of all ages, one to one hundred, to make daily prayer an important part of everyday life.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Betty Lou Mann’s new book is a beautifully illustrated and charming children’s book that seeks to teach children the importance of prayer by reiterating Jesus’ admonition in Matthew 19:14 and highlighting the various times of day in which prayer might be practiced with catchy, memorizable, and repeatable verse.

View a synopsis of “What Does Jesus Say To All Children Everywhere?” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “What Does Jesus Say To All Children Everywhere?” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “What Does Jesus Say To All Children Everywhere?”, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)
September 30, 2020

“The Mysteries of Hillsted”: a gripping tale that follows a constable who sets out on a mission to uncover the mysteries that surround the town with the help of others. “The Mysteries of Hillsted” is the creation of published author Sheila Shepard, a relentless writer of mysteries. She has been reading and enjoying mystery books for so long. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business and has a desire to expand her ability for writing to motivate her readers.

Shepard shares, “The Town of Hillsted is amazingly beautiful and quiet, with extraordinary mysteries around every corner. Traci wants to tell you about her astonishing town, not that anyone would believe her. The strangest mysteries have occurred there.

“Traci is the Constable’s sister, the things she has seen are unimaginable. The town people say everyone would love to live here. The visitors say anyone can live there if they can survive.

“Mike is the town constable who is searching for answers to these mysterious events that have happened in his town. His sister Traci and her friend Dr. Madison unfold other mysteries of that town that have an indescribable twist.

“As a reader, you will be intrigued that the town of Hillsted has many secrets. The people of Hillsted will fascinate you. The mysteries of Hillsted will captivate you. This book is one of many in a series as the stories will absorb you and leave you wanting more!”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Sheila Shepard’s new book is an intriguing and wondrous fiction that attempts to unveil the secrets of Hillsted town where the civilians are equally fascinating as the mysteries they hold.

View a synopsis of “The Mysteries of Hillsted” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “The Mysteries of Hillsted” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “The Mysteries of Hillsted,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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