guns in church

Did you happen to see the article in the Wichita Eagle about the dilemma that local churches will face regarding the concealed weapon law in Kansas? According to the article, now that the law allows concealed weapons, the only way that churches are exempt is if they place the commonly seen sticker of a gun with a red slash through it on the entry doors.

What do you think? Do you think it is appropriate for churches to have visibly conspicuous stickers on the front doors?

I am reminded of an experience I had in McPherson when I was an associate pastor. I was to give the children's sermon and I decided that I would honor and recognize law enforcement personnel through my children's sermon. I invited a man who was a State Trooper with the Kansas Highway Patrol, a member of the congregation, to join in the front for the children's sermon. I read from the Living Bible a passage from Romans..."if you do what is right...you do not have to fear the police."

The State Trooper came dressed in his uniform and had his gun on his holster. When the service was over, (this was before email), I had several persons who were very upset with me for having the State Trooper as a participant in the service. As I asked more questions about "why," I quickly discovered, that every single complaint registered, was focused on the fact that the Trooper was wearing his gun.

To this day, I have to confess to you, I would never expect a police officer to be present in uniform, anywhere, including a church, without his/her gun. Primarily, for their own safety as a peace officer and for the protection of those who are near them. I know FBI and DEA agents who speak of the need, at all times and places, to never be without protection. People do seek revenge!

So, what if Chapel Hill Charlie or Chapel Hill Casandra show up on a Sunday morning with a concealed weapon? Do we let them in or do we make it clear that guns are not welcome?

My personal opinion is....we should never post signs barring weapons....perhaps we ask, through more gentle means (bulletin, Spark, blog, etc.) to encourage persons, unless law enforcement personnel, to leave their guns at home.

From where I stand.....when we gather in the name of the Prince of Peace, all persons are welcome, and his message of love is stronger than the power of any weapon.

What do you think?