Pastor Tells People To Take Guns To Church

Mon, 29 June 2009 Courtesy of: Ananova

Pastor Ken Pagano told parishioners to bring their unloaded guns to New Bethel Church in Louisville, Kentucky, reports the BBC.

He organised a service celebrating the right to bear arms after church members voiced fears President Obama could tighten gun control laws.

"We are wanting to send a message that there are legal, civil, intelligent and law-abiding citizens who also own guns," Mr Pagano told the congregation.

"If it were not for a deep-seated belief in the right to bear arms, this country would not be here today," he said.

Pastor Pagano also held a handgun raffle, as well as providing information on gun safety.

"I wish more churches did this, I wish more people did this," the Louisville Courier-Journal quoted one attendee, Doreen Rogers, as saying.

"For some reason, most people think that carrying guns is sinful. It's not. I think my life is worth protecting."

A coalition of religious groups and campaigners held a rival gun-free event at the same time on the other side of Louisville.

"The idea of wearing guns to churches or any sacred space I think many people find deeply troubling," said organiser Terry Taylor.