In my previous pastorate we invited Stephen Novak to conduct a safety inspection and
training session with the leadership of our church. After his survey, Stephen pointed out
areas the congregation was vulnerable to attack and entrapment during our weekly
services. He discussed ways we could prevent such an occurrence from happening and
how we could defend ourselves if it did.

He also provided training related to selecting a team responsible for security during our
church meetings. The training included the need to implement surveillance of the church
parking lot and the building’s points of entry and exit. He discussed the critical reasons
team members would need ongoing leadership and training, and the advantage of them
being licensed to carry concealed weapons; emphasizing the need for them to actually
carry during each church meeting.

The session was educational, interesting, and helpful. We were able to implement new
security measures that we followed after that meeting.

Pastor Rob Porter

Cornerstone Church

Altoona, IA

 

Stephen has been a part of our security team at Alathea since its inception about seven
years ago. We so appreciate his vigilant attention to potential threats from the outside
so that all of us in the congregation can give our undivided attention to what is going on
inside. Knowing the experience Stephen has gained in military service and in other
security positions only adds to our confidence in him. It is unfortunate that threats are
significantly elevated in our society today, but the quality security we have at Alathea
enables us to continue pursuing our mission with peace of mind.

Pastor Doug DeFord

Alathea Baptist Church

Des Moines, IA

 

During his employment with UnityPoint Health-DM Public Safety, Stephen provided safe and secure environment for all patients, visitors and staff members. He assisted with patients, staff and visitors as needed, responded to emergency and routine request for service, patrolled interior and exterior of hospital and its grounds, documented relevant calls by writing incident reports and utilized a holistic approach to patients. He exceeded customer expectations, used good public relation skills and displayed a helpful attitude.

Greg Stout, UPH-DM Public Safety Supervisor