Churchs, pre-Luther et al breakaways from Catholicism, were sanctuaries because of the Church in Rome's wealth & Power; literally, King makers. Even after people staring breaking away from Catholicism, many of the new faiths still had the ability to provide sanctuary for similar reasons. At that time, like it or not, TBTB had to recognise the concept unless of course you were hiding from Attila or Genghis; then get a weapon and extract a price for your life or ....
Most feudal-era holdings couldn't support the manpower required to apply total, absolute control; in general, they could deal w/ small issues but if 200± serfs rebelled en masse, probably not. If the lord of the manor put the rebels down hard, who'd do the work? Sort of a stalemate.
I think locking up churches started in N America courtesy of the Great Depression to keep people from squatting but I'd have to research that.
In any event, the current situation only supports my position that the bulk of organised faith groups today are in the game to support their own bureaucracies and wealth accumulation, not to actually provide real service to their followers. A perfect example: during a recent weather crisis in Texas, Joel Olsteen, on camera, refused to say why he wouldn't throw open his 'church facility' (a re-purposed stadium?) to temporarily house those whose homes had been destroyed. He did say, repeatedly, 'send money so we can do God's work' or words to that effect.
Granted, it might not be his sole decision - I don't know the structure of the hierarchy involved - but there was only one stated possibility of providing aid; send money. Not even a hint of 'taking it to the board of deacons' or similar.
Just my view but here, there seems to be a church on almost every 2nd-3rd intersection yet there are innumerable homeless and related issues and all those 'houses of worship' seem to be closed tight, until its time to accept donations.
I fully expect to be castigated for this as I know the vast majority of TB2K users are staunch in their Christian faiths but , would suggest folks follow their beliefs on a personal basis. If any good works flow from churches these days, its because such good Christians are in leadership positions in those churches.
While I try to act under Christian principles of Charity & Compassion in my own life, its been a long time since I've seen clear, consistent examples of that from any 'Church'. Phone Help Lines aren't what I consider clear and consistent examples; feet in the streets, open doors/access to aid when/as required are.
In fairness, I think trying to help someone who hasn't admitted to needing help and asked for same is a waste of resources but, maybe try to be accessible when someone gets to that point.
Open a freaking door and put out a hand.
And BTW, if I offended anyone, that was not my intent.