Tree of Life synagogue only saw police presence on High Holidays. On an ordinary day like Saturday, the doors would stay open, and anyone could walk in.
But after the massacre at the Pittsburgh house of worship, synagogues like it aren't taking any chances.
Several states have increased police presence at religious institutions. And religious leaders are grappling with the delicate balance between welcoming and wary.
Soon after the attack, President Donald Trump said the shooter could have been stopped if Tree of Life had armed guards. He suggested holy places might want to consider such protection.
"They had a maniac walk in and they didn't have any protection and that is just so sad to see," he said.
It's often a difficult decision to make, said Eric Robbins, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation in Atlanta.
"Trying to find a balance between being welcoming to a community and security is a difficult balance to find," he told CNN.
