Rockwood Programs has introduced an insurance product designed to provide liability protection for congregants who volunteer as security personnel during worship services.
The coverage is purchased by the sponsoring church on behalf of the volunteer security team and includes legal defense and indemnity for civil actions brought against team members.
The policy provides liability limits of up to $300,000 per security team member, with a $1 million aggregate policy limit. There is no deductible, and coverage can be extended to include services held at satellite locations.
Claims administration is handled by Wilson Elser, an international law firm that provides legal defense services. Policyholders also have access to a legal hotline staffed by attorneys with expertise in liability issues.
Outside of covering security personnel, liability coverage for churches and other religious sects have proven their viability in recent times.
Last month, the Diocese of Trenton filed a lawsuit against Chubb and its subsidiaries, along with other insurance providers, alleging that they have refused to pay claims related to sexual abuse cases brought under the New Jersey Child Victims Act.
However, the giant insurer countered that it had reasons to refuse, citing that “insurance covers accidents – not intentional, unconscionable, and knowing misconduct.”
The ongoing legal battle has put a spotlight on what can be covered by these liability policies – and where some insurers will draw the line.
According to Glenn W. Clark, CPCU, president of Rockwood Programs, the number of security-related incidents at houses of worship has risen significantly. He cited more than 430 separate incidents reported in 2023, which is more than double the number from the previous year and represents an 800% increase since 2018.
Clark noted that many churches now rely on congregants to provide security, with studies showing that about four in five US Protestant pastors have implemented detailed security plans. Among them, 54% include armed congregants as part of their security strategies.
Clark said traditional insurance policies purchased by churches often do not extend coverage to non-professional security teams, leaving volunteers exposed to personal liability if they are required to respond to an incident.
The Volunteer Church Security policies are underwritten by Fortegra member companies, which hold an A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best.
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