"Preachers arming themselves following church massacre" reports on a training class for religious leaders. Clergy from various denomination are taking steps to better defend themselves and their congregations. The ministers received instruction not only shooting, but also about the legal concerns, planning and situational awareness.
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| Photo: WWLTV |
In the second story, "Church opens gun range ministry ‘in the name of Jesus Christ’," tells about a church that is helping the members of its congregation to prepare. The Rocky Mount United Methodist Church in Alabama has set up a shooting range behind the church and formed a gun club which holds training classes.
I found these stories notable as they indicate an increased awareness, and acceptance, that attacks targeting Christians are happening. Just putting a "church" sign on a building doesn't ward off those with evil intent. While any states have laws forbidding church goers from having a means of self defense, some people are realizing the naiveté of those "gun free zones."
"Legitimate defense can be not only a right but a grave duty for one who is responsible for the lives of others. The defense of the common good requires that an unjust aggressor be rendered unable to cause harm. For this reason, those who legitimately hold authority also have the right to use arms to repel aggressors against the civil community entrusted to their responsibility."
--Catechism of the Catholic Church #2265
As my first pastor would say, meek does not mean weak.
ReplyDeleteExactly! I have that discussion with "turn the other cheek" Christians frequently.
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