Sheikh Ahmed al-Safi's call for bolstering the security apparatus came in the wake of Sunday's deadly attacks at a church in the capital Baghdad.
At least 52 worshippers were killed and over 72 injured in the outrage at the Assyrian "Our Lady of Salvation" Catholic church.
A pro-al Qaeda group calling itself, the "Islamic State of Iraq," has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Al-Safi, who is regarded as a close confidant of influential religious leader Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, told faithfuls during Friday prayers that security forces should face up to new challenges thrown at them. "Security forces must think seriously about developing new means of protection other than the traditional ways that are not up to the challenges," al-Safi said.
According to the cleric, "targeting churches and attempted murders are unacceptable and should be condemned because everyone in Iraq should enjoy the necessary protection to live."
Besides al-Safi called upon Iraqi politicians to draw ranks in order the check the slide in the law and order situation.
Despite a slight improvement in the security situation prevailing in the war-ravaged country, selected killings and kidnappings occur almost on a daily basis.
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