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"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.
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