Church Shootings: What The...?!?

     By now, you're sure to have heard about the shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, TX. Disheartening: 26 people dead, more wounded. The shooter was only stopped because a plumber next door got a phone call from his daughter -- rushed out, shot the guy, got another man to give him a ride, then chased the shooter for miles before the truck crashed...and the shooter took his own life.

Another shooting happened in Tennessee in September. We are no strangers to this, either, after the Colorado Springs church shooting a decade ago.  (Plus the Colorado theater shooting in 2012.)

What to do?

It's clear that there will always be disgruntled wackos out there, who can get their hands on weapons -- illegally or not. (In this guy's case, the Air Force never publicized his dishonorable discharge -- which surely would have kept him from buying those guns. The Air Force admitted they never let the FBI know: "a huge mistake.")

Our church made a decision about this issue more than a year ago. On any given Sunday, by special arrangement, at least a few men will be 'packing,' as the Brick and I are fond of saying. Legally, with concealed weapon permits.

It's amazing what you can conceal under a sportcoat or leather jacket. And equally amazing what 99.9% of the people in the congregation will never notice -- or know about.

Others in church membership keep guns accessible. In Colorado's case, you're allowed to keep one in your trunk -- if it's locked up. That's what saved the church in Tennessee. (These articles take another look -- be sure to read the 'Packing in the Pews' article, especially, passed on by a retired pastor -- thanks, Cousin Leo.)

The deacon that arranged this plan for our church is related to a famous mob family. I find that amusing!

But it is also a relief.