Protecting the Flock: How the Archdiocese of Denver Is Working to Keep Our Schools and Parishes Safe

The flags at the Archdiocese of Denver are flying at half-mast following the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo: Denver Catholic)

The Catholic community is once again mourning after tragedy struck in Minneapolis, where two young lives were lost during a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School, and many others were critically wounded. The sacredness of the moment, which happened at the back-to-school Mass — when the faithful gathered to worship — was shattered by violence. 

Such a tragedy is all too familiar for many Coloradans, who remember similar horrific events at Columbine High School, Platte Canyon High School, Arapahoe High School and the Highlands Ranch STEM School. 

As the news broke from Minneapolis, Coloradans indeed couldn’t help but feel a weighty empathy for our brothers and sisters affected by the pain of such tragedy. For Deacon Mike Daly, archdiocesan director of security and safety, Wednesday's news was both heartbreaking and a call to redouble his efforts to keep others safe.  

“This was the most sacred time we come to give praise and worship, and evil showed up,” Deacon Daly reflected. “Churches are the foundation of our societies. And when we don’t have those places to come to, so much more unravels.” 

A Mission Rooted in Safety 

Deacon Daly joined the Archdiocese of Denver full-time about a year ago, bringing more than two decades of law enforcement experience. His career included serving with the Wheat Ridge Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, where he responded to critical incidents, handled active shooter situations and rose through the ranks to retire as commander. He also served as a SWAT negotiator. 

Now, his focus is on safeguarding the Archdiocese’s 127 parishes, 31 schools and numerous other Catholic apostolates. His mission is to identify vulnerabilities, assess risks and build a culture of preparedness in every corner of the Church. 

“I pretty much wake and go to sleep partially thinking about this stuff,” Deacon Daly said. “The work never stops, because evil never rests.” 

Building a Culture of Preparedness 

Since stepping into his role, Deacon Daly has developed a standard response program designed to unify the way parishes and schools respond to threats. Among the most innovative initiatives he has brought to local parishes and schools is the RedBag Program, which creates a culture of safety and has multiple critical benefits. RedBag is considered a real “game-changer” in school safety. Their unique approach comes from combining emergency supplies in the classroom along with a QR-code-based silent communication system, which can connect classrooms directly with first responders in an emergency situation.  

RedBag also provides robust training and a “trauma informed” proven method for making sure that students, teachers and staff all know what to do in an emergency situation and know exactly how to get help. 

“It’s a high-speed first aid kit as well as a pathway to a communication system that allows everybody in that school community system to communicate with each other,” Deacon Daly explained. All schools and parishes were trained in RedBag over the summer months.  

Beyond the RedBag Program, Deacon Daly has been pursuing security grants to strengthen schools and parishes with additional resources — everything from improved infrastructure to enhanced technology. 

Dr. Kemmery Hill, superintendent of Catholic schools, praised these efforts as a vital partnership in protecting students.  

“The safety and well-being of our children is always our highest priority,” she said. “Thanks to the leadership of Deacon Daly and the collaboration between our schools and parishes, we are building not just stronger security systems, but a stronger culture of care and preparedness rooted in our Catholic values.” 

Standing Strong in Faith 

The Minneapolis tragedy underscored the importance of Deacon Daly’s mission. Even in the face of evil, the Archdiocese of Denver remains steadfast in its faith. 

“We have our part to play in repelling evil and fighting against it, and we know ultimately, evil will not overcome,” Deacon Daly said. “We’re going to keep praying and we’re going to keep giving thanks and praise to God — in spite of evil — because that’s who we live for, not evil.” 

For the Archdiocese of Denver, security isn’t just about policies and programs. It’s about ensuring that children, families and communities can gather to worship in peace. As Deacon Daly puts it, the work is about protecting the very heart of Catholic life — our sacred spaces. 

The Archdiocese of Denver continues to stand vigilant, making safety in our schools and parishes a top priority while holding fast to hope and trust in God. We also join with our brothers and sisters in the Twin Cities as they grieve such a horrific tragedy. May Our Lady, Queen of Peace, intercede for all those affected and bring the true peace that only Christ can give.