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Security measures

Some practical security tips 


Identify art objects: describe them in detail, measure them, photograph them and archive the information. This operation must be carried out regularly to keep an accurate record of the heritage preserved in churches and chapels.


Securing objects: 

  • Attach statues and paintings and install appropriate alarm systems. As the municipalities own the premises (except in special cases), it is up to them to ask the curator to secure the registered or classified objects.
  • Place objects of worship - goldsmiths' wares and liturgical vestments - in locked rooms.
  • It is advisable to deposit classified objects in the Treasury, for what is no longer used or only very occasionally, the opinion of the Diocesan Commission of Sacred Art is necessary. In the event of a deposit, an agreement is established: the parish or commune remains the full owner of the deposited documents.
  • Store sound equipment in a cabinet (microphones in particular).


Secure the building: 

  • Part of the building can be equipped with an alarm, at least in the sacristy.
  • Close unnecessary church accesses.
  • Sensitize the inhabitants of the districts and villages to the protection of their church: that they do not hesitate to notify the police in case of suspicious movements of people or vehicles in front of places of worship, night or day. 
  • Secure the offering trunks and relativize petty theft (a closed church does not allow offerings to be collected).
  • Always lock the sacristy and do not put all the keys in a place visible or accessible to all.
  • Close churches at night and if necessary, do not forget to connect the alarm system.

In case of theft

  • It is necessary to file a complaint immediately either at the police station or at the gendarmerie and inform your priest and the diocese (CDAS).
  • Give the authorities the descriptions in the inventory.


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