Places of Worship Emergency Security: Preparing for and Responding to Threats

Places of worship are built on openness, community, and trust. At the same time, they must be prepared to address real-world risks that can arise without warning. From large gatherings to high-profile services, these environments require thoughtful planning and the ability to respond quickly. Emergency Security plays a critical role in helping faith-based organizations protect […]

Place of Worship Security Strategies to Protect Congregations During Passover

Passover is one of the most meaningful times of the year for Jewish families and communities. Synagogues see increased attendance for services, community seders, and special events. With larger crowds and heightened visibility, security planning becomes essential. The goal isn’t to create a fortress. It’s to create a safe, welcoming environment where congregants can focus […]

Place of Worship Security Review: Why December Requires Enhanced Protection

Place of Worship Security

December is a meaningful month for many faith communities. It’s also one of the busiest, most logistically challenging times of the year for places of worship. Between Christmas services, Hanukkah celebrations, winter programs, larger crowds, and unpredictable weather, the risk factors stack up fast. A thoughtful, well-prepared security plan isn’t a luxury this time of […]

A Place of Worship Security Blueprint for Synagogues: Protecting Jewish Communities in Chicago

The Anti-Defamation League’s recent report on antisemitism in the U.S. brought both encouraging and sobering news for Illinois. On one hand, the state was ranked as “leading the way” in combating antisemitism—applauded for its Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes and new legislation allowing victims of harassment to seek civil compensation. On the other hand, […]

How to Protect Places of Worship from Emerging Security Threats in 2025

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Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peace, reflection, and community. However, in today’s world, ensuring the safety of congregants, staff, and religious leaders has become a growing concern. Place of worship security is more important than ever, as security threats continue to evolve, requiring faith communities to take proactive measures to protect […]

A Checklist for Managing Crowds and Security During High Holy Days at Synagogues

The High Holy Days—Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur—are among the most significant times of the year for Jewish communities. Synagogues across the world experience larger than usual crowds as congregants come together for prayer, reflection, and community. While these gatherings are spiritually uplifting, they also present unique challenges in terms of crowd management and security.  […]

Balancing Open Doors and Security: A Guide for Places of Worship

Places of worship are sanctuaries of faith, community, and cultural heritage. They serve as venues where individuals gather for prayer, learning, and support. However, in today’s world, these places also face significant security challenges. Ensuring the safety of congregants while maintaining a welcoming and open atmosphere is a delicate balance that requires careful planning and […]

Ensuring Safety and Security in Places of Worship in 2023: A Focus on Synagogues

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In an ever-changing world, security remains a paramount concern, especially when it comes to places of worship. Recent years have witnessed an alarming increase in security threats directed at religious institutions, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding these sacred spaces. In this blog post, we will delve into the evolving landscape of place of worship security […]

Modern Day Security Threats to Jewish Places of Worship

places-of-worship

The Jewish community is consistently the most targeted religious community in the United States. The Jewish community congregates in synagogues to worship, exchange information and bond. But these sacred spaces are often seen as ‘soft targets’ to adversaries – places where they can inflict mass casualties and draw extensive media coverage. While all faith-based communities […]

Protos
Headquarters

383 Main Ave, Suite 505
Norwalk, CT 06851, USA
Phone: 203.941.4700

Protos
Headquarters

383 Main Ave, Suite 505
Norwalk, CT 06851, USA
Phone: 203.941.4700

Mark Hjelle

Chief Executive Officer

Mark Hjelle is the CEO of Security Services Holdings, LLC as well as Protos Security and its subsidiaries. Mark is an experienced Chief Executive Officer and Board Member who has led large national business and facilities services firms for nearly 25 years delivering strong top- and bottom-line growth while building high-performing teams with strong culture. Most recently, he was CEO for CSC ServiceWorks, a B2B2C provider of technology-enabled consumer services. Prior to CSC, Mark was President of Brickman/Valleycrest a national provider of exterior landscape and snow removal services. Over the course of his 18-year tenure at Brickman, he held numerous leadership positions in operations, finance and business development. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from The Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Government Administration from the University of Pennsylvania Fels Institute of Government and a Law Degree from Case Western Reserve School of Law.