2026 Annual Church Safety Conference
Looking for ways to help keep your church or organization safe in both daily activities and emergency situations? Our annual Church Safety Conference provides hands-on training from building safety to de-escalation tactics to legal liabilities.
When?
February 21, 2026
Check in starts at 7:30am
Event starts at 8:30am
Event concludes at 5:00pm
Where?
First Baptist Church of Middleville & Peace Church of Middleville
Who?
You!
Why?
Because we value our freedom to gather and worship together, and we want to help and equip churches and organizations to keep those in their facilities safe.
How?
Through generous donations from our sponsors and attendees like you!
Featured Speaker:
About Ted Jensen
Dynamic public speaker and fire service professional with 25+ years of experience delivering engaging safety presentations, leadership talks, and motivational workshops. Known for blending real-world expertise with humor and storytelling, Theodore inspires audiences to take action toward safer, stronger communities.
Signature Topics
Community Risk Reduction – Empowering leaders to make a difference
Leadership & Motivation – Inspiring teamwork, resilience, and responsibility
Public Education Excellence – How to connect, engage, and teach effectively
Fire Safety & Prevention – Essential life-saving knowledge for students & staff
Speaking Highlights
- National Fire Academy & PARADE Conference
- Michigan Fire Inspectors Society – Public Educator of the Year (2007), Past President (2016)
- 25+ years presenting for Grand Rapids Fire Department – schools, businesses, faith-based groups, civic organizations
- Volunteer speaker for youth, nonprofits, and community leadership programs
Awards & Recognition
Medal of Merit (2007) – Fire Prevention Education
Medal of Commendation (2009) – Outstanding Community Contributions
Public Educator of the Year (2007) – Michigan Fire Inspectors Society
What Audiences Are Saying
“Theodore brings energy and authenticity — he had our members engaged from start to finish.”
“Practical, inspiring, and unforgettable.”
Book Ted Jensen
616-446-4309 | tjsafety@gmail.com | LinkedIn
Breakout Sessions
First Aid – Instructor Tom Conrad
This first aid course will include hands-on manikin training for adult CPR along with AED use and practice. If you wish to receive a certification card, please indicate interest when signing up as there is an online portion to be completed and an additional fee.
Tom Conrad:
Thomas Conrad, Tom is preferred, is a forty plus year veteran of law enforcement and security operations. He has experience as a police officer, police administrator, volunteer fireman / EMT. He led security operations for a large metropolitan hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as other elements of security and safety operations for a variety of venues.
Tom volunteers his time as a church security team member. He has engaged in assisting other houses of worship in developing their teams in providing a safety and security environment that minimizes threats and risks to people attending services and functions. Every ministry faces risks, and through assessments and audits, risks can be minimized thereby aiding in Ministry mission and vision achievement.
He has taught a variety of classes at the college level and engages regularly in developing skills in basic CPR, AED, and first aid. He is active in developing classes for those persons desiring perspective on firearms and their function in houses of worship and other places. He is a recognized instructor with the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, NRA and other organizations.
He has a BS in Business Management Administration from Ferris State University, graduate classes in human resources development from the University of Wisconsin system and Ferris State University. He has completed training in law enforcement leadership from the University of Wisconsin. He was a certified police officer in both Wisconsin and in Michigan.
Complete Warrior – Instructor Skip Coryell
A recent poll showed that 40% of Americans are afraid to walk outside their home at night even within a mile of their own residence. Why do people feel so unsafe? The knock-out game, flash mobs, street takeovers: 10 years ago few of us had heard of these things, but now they’re all over the news. Why are all these crimes happening, and, more importantly, how can we protect and defend against all these growing threats to our churches our families and our communities? Many people believe the answer is to buy a gun, but it’s not that simple, since 85% of altercations don’t rise to the level of deadly force. So, what is the answer? You need to become the complete self-defense warrior. This breakout session examines exactly what that means and how you can form a balanced and layered approach to self-defense.
Skip Coryell:
Skip Coryell lives with his wife and children in Michigan. He works full time as a professional writer and a concealed carry instructor. Skip is the author of 21 books, including Civilian Combat: The Concealed Carry Book as well as Concealed Carry for Christians and his latest release Self Defense Scenarios: Living in a Dangerous World. He is an avid hunter and sportsman, a Marine Corps veteran, and a graduate of Cornerstone University. You can listen to Skip as he co-hosts the syndicated military talk radio show Frontlines of Freedom on frontlinesoffreedom.com. You can also hear his weekly podcast The Home Defense Show at homedefenseshow.com.
Building and Maintaining Church Safety Teams – Instructor Trevor DeGroote
This comprehensive course is designed to equip churches with the knowledge, structure, and practical framework required to build, develop, and maintain an effective safety ministry. Whether your church is establishing a team for the first time or seeking to refine the systems you already have in place, this course provides a detailed roadmap grounded in real-world experience, proven principles, and mission-focused leadership.
Participants will learn how to design a safety team that supports both the spiritual and operational mission of the church. Topics include recruiting and vetting team members, defining roles and responsibilities, creating layered security, developing emergency action plans, implementing communication systems, and fostering a healthy team culture built around service, humility, and preparedness. Trevor will also break down actionable strategies for training cycles, documentation practices, incident response, medical readiness, preventative measures, and long-term sustainability.
This course emphasizes the balance between hospitality and vigilance; ensuring church environments remain warm, welcoming, and mission-minded while still incorporating the protective measures necessary in an unpredictable world. By the end, participants will walk away with a fully developed understanding of how to build a capable, unified, purpose-driven safety ministry that is aligned with both operational excellence and the heart of church community.
Trevor DeGroote:
Trevor is the Owner of Trinity Training and Security and the Founder of Prepared To Prevail Co., bringing years of professional experience in security operations, personal defense, protective leadership, and team development. He specializes in helping churches build intentional, mission-centered safety ministries that align protection with purpose. Trevor’s approach blends high standards, practical training, and a heart for service, empowering organizations to create safer spaces without compromising their values or their culture. His work has shaped church teams across multiple communities, and he continues to lead with the belief that preparedness is an act of stewardship and love.
Integrated Dynamic Response Training: Assault Prevention & Response for Security – Instructor Craig Gray
An Israeli Perspective to the Approach, Interview & Engagement
This class will introduce the Integrated Dynamic Response System (IDR) which begins with clarifying the Protector Mindset and go on to teach how effective assessment, influence and (physical) engagement skills all come together during an interaction. The participant will learn both individual and team engagements spanning a spectrum of encounters.
The session will also introduce specific physical defensive tactics including:
- Assault Response
- The Proper Approach
- Proxemics
- Stance and Movement
- Escort Portions (solo & team)
- Physical Separations
- Weapon Retention
Craig Gray:
Craig Gray has over 35 years experience in security services, martial arts and defensive tactics. He holds black belts and advanced instructor certifications in several martial arts and tactical communication systems, including Krav Maga,
Budo Taijutsu and VDI Verbal Defense & Influence. For decades he has been hired to teach numerous police departments, military personnel, security teams, churches, hospitals and schools. He is one of the founding instructors of RGI, the team who was contracted to re-train the entire Camden New Jersey police department on their current community policing protocol. Craig owns and operates a local Krav Maga Academy and is the founder of PeaceWalker.net, an on-line learning center teaching leadership, conflict management, and defensive tactics. His unique approach helps people to develop a Protectors Lifestyle, enhancing every aspect of one’s personal and professional life.
Lethal Force and the Law: What You Need to Know – Instructor Jim Makowski
This class will focus on laws regarding the appropriate use of deadly force in self-defense and how to conduct yourself and interact with the police in the aftermath of a self-defense incident.
Jim Makowski:
Jim Makowski graduated from the University of Michigan – Dearborn in 1995 with an A.B. in Political Science. Jim continued his education at the University of Detroit – Mercy Law and graduated with a J.D. in 1999. Jim is currently the managing attorney at Makowski Legal Group PLC in Dearborn, Michigan. His firm specializes in criminal defense with an emphasis on firearms law, more specifically on self-defense. He developed the Concealed Pistol License legal training curriculum for the United States Concealed Carry Association and serves on its Critical Response Team.
Mr. Makowski is frequently a guest on various media outlets, both locally and nationally, regarding legal issues relating to firearms. He also serves as Corporation Counsel for Michigan Gun Owners Inc., as well as a legal advisor to Michigan Open Carry, Inc
Scenario-Based Training – Instructors Austin Miller, Tom Getz, and Jake Denison
This scenario-driven training session places students in dynamic, realistic environments designed to test their skills, decision-making, communication, and composure under pressure. Using structured scenarios and role-based interactions, students are immersed in situations that replicate the types of challenges individuals may encounter in church settings.
Participants will navigate evolving situations that require more than technical skill; each scenario is constructed to challenge critical thinking, threat identification, emotional control, de-escalation options, and appropriate force application. The goal is not just to “win” scenarios, but to build the mental framework and practical awareness required to respond effectively and responsibly in the real world.
Training may incorporate airsoft for increased realism and feedback. Students are encouraged to bring additional clothing layers, jackets, or gloves for comfort and protection during impact-based scenarios. Full face protection will be provided to ensure safety while maintaining scenario intensity and focus.
This session is ideal for church safety team volunteers, concealed carriers, security personnel, and anyone seeking to elevate their capability beyond static drills and into applied, scenario-based proficiency. Every scenario is coached, debriefed, and guided to maximize learning and confidence.
Austin Miller:
Austin is a certified firearms instructor with Trinity Training and Security. He brings a disciplined, methodical approach to training, helping students translate foundational skills into real-world performance. Known for his clarity, patience, and attention to detail, he excels at breaking down complex concepts into practical, repeatable actions. Austin’s scenario development focuses on realism, accountability, and building decision-making skills that hold up under pressure.
Tom Getz:
Tom is a certified firearms instructor with Trinity Training and Security. He is a dynamic instructor with a strong operational mindset and a commitment to helping students grow beyond comfort-zone training. His instruction emphasizes practical problem-solving, situational awareness, and confident movement. Tom is skilled at guiding students through stress inoculation and helping them understand both the technical and psychological components of high-stress encounters
Jake Denison:
Jake is a certified firearms instructor with Trinity Training and Security. He specializes in adaptive training, ensuring each student gains value regardless of experience level. His teaching style is focused, supportive, and grounded in proven defensive principles. Jake’s scenarios push students to think critically, communicate effectively, and respond with discipline. He excels at providing constructive feedback that builds confidence and competence.
Active Violence Immediate Response Training ($10 fee, to be paid upon class assignment) – Instructors Jason Mishler and John Brandow
Response to an active shooter and shooting, stop the bleed, hands-on training to defend yourself, working as a team to take down the violence brought into your house of worship, workplace, and/or school.
Please note, this class has a $10 fee for certification, which is required for attendance. If you are assigned this class, you will be notified by email and the fee will need to be submitted through our website at that time.
Jason Mishler:
Jason is the business owner of On Target & Safety Training, LLC and has 5 years’ experience teaching AVIRT. He served in the Army as part of the Military Police for ten years. He’s been a part of the Barry County Sheriff Posse for eight years, serving in leadership roles from sergeant up to captain; however, he chose to step down to focus on developing the next generation of leaders. Jason also has five years’ experience working as a MCRGO certified CPL instructor.
John Brandow:
John is a twelve-year member of the Barry County Sheriff’s Posse and is currently in his fifth year as Second Lieutenant. He is a Rescue Task Force instructor for the 5th District Regional Homeland Security Board and the Medical Response Coalition group. John has provided personal and event security for a Grammy Award winning international musician, speakers and a former gubernatorial candidate. He enjoys helping churches set up and build their safety team. He currently serves on and helps lead his church’s safety team.
Response to an Active Shooter (spans both breakout session times, located at Peace Church) – Instructor Victor Pierce
This class focuses on church members and/or teams learning tactical operations for addressing a valid deadly force encounter. Training will also entail hands-on room and hallway clearing techniques. Training equipment is provided for this class. Please note, this class is scheduled for both breakout session times; if you select and are assigned this class, you will not be able to attend other breakout sessions
Victor Pierce:
Victor Pierce has nearly 42 years of Law Enforcement experience, consisting of 30 years with Battle Creek Police Department (Retired as Sergeant), 4 ½ years with Barry Township (Chief) and 5 years with Emmett Township Department of Public Safety. 16 of those years have included Supervisory Experience, including 4 ½ years serving as Chief of Police in Barry Township. Victor has also been an Adjunct Police Academy Instructor with Kellogg Community College, teaching new recruits. In his professional career, he has served on both the Battle Creek Police Departments Tactical Team ERT as well as Barry County Sheriff Department SRT Team. He has been a Training Instructor, teaching various facets of Law Enforcement some of which includes Firearms, Defensive Tactics, Preparation for Active Shooter, Police Reserve Academy. He has been a School Safety Officer, Crime Prevention Officer, Forensic Crime Lab Supervisor and a Detective working Special Investigations. Victor’s current assignment is that of a School Resource Officer in Emmett Twp. Victor has also been involved in teaching the importance Church Security and Safety and has been an active Security member for his local church at Woodland Church in Battle Creek MI.
Place of Worship Active Assailant Preparation and Response – Instructor Jim Yarger
This course will cover the importance of planning, training, and drilling for an active assailant incident at your place of worship. Topics will include pre-incident indicators, normalcy bias (denial), preparation and planning for an active assailant incident, responding to an intruder, training and drills, and what happens after an active assailant incident occurs.
Jim Yarger:
Starting in 2016, Jim is now an active shooter/intruder response instructor for Strategos International.
Jim served as the Emergency Management Coordinator for Barry County from 2004 until 2025. He served as the chairperson for the 5th District Homeland Security Planning Board, which encompasses the ten emergency management programs in Southwest Michigan. Jim currently holds many emergency management and fire service certifications which include the Michigan Professional Emergency Management Certification (PEM).
Jim was the chairperson of a regional project that created the Michigan Technical Rescue Team Region 5. The MI-TRT-5 is made possible through the collaboration of 26 fire departments in southwestern Michigan.
Jim started serving on the Freeport Area Volunteer Fire Department in 1979 and has held the position of Fire Chief there since 1999.
Jim is a Michigan Fire Fighters Training Council Certified Instructor 1 and teaches regularly at the Barry County Fire Academy. Jim is also a Volunteer Fireman’s Insurance Services (VFIS) certified Emergency Vehicle Driver Trainer and ATV/UTV Driver Training instructor.