It is a sad day when you have to be packing heat to go to church.
I don’t think there is a church in the area that doesn’t have armed security throughout the membership.
The other day I counted 7 men who were carrying. in a congregation of about 120
My church encourages members to carry. "Then said he to them, But now, he that has a purse, let him take it, and likewise his money: and he that has no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one . . . And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said to them, It is enough."
We have several armed members present at each service, more than we saw in the recent shooting, although that church probably had more too. That way we can focus on our real mission without the distraction of worrying about safety. From time to time odd ducks walk in. The ushers will single them out, give them coffee, tea, or a snack, and talk with them to find out what they need. Walk in looking homeless or crazy, and you will be welcomed and fed . . . and checked out carefully. Our hospitality plan includes security, and our security plan includes hospitality.