Since the preacher a week or two ago that was shot dead at the pulpit, I've had a couple of random questions. How vulnerable are we at church? I had this thought that maybe some guys are packing heat- asked to or maybe not- for the protection of the people in church. It would make sense to me.
And what about the conference center? Are there security personell in and around the center during conference that carry firearms?
__________________
"There is order in the way the Lord reveals His will to mankind. . .we cannot receive revelation for someone else's stewardship." L. Tom Perry
Mirk might be able to answer about the conference center, but in my opinion there's no moral problem with carrying at church. I mean, many people have life insurance, and hope never to need it, right? It's the same thing with a gun.
__________________
If ye love wealth better than liberty, the tranquility of servitude than the animated contest of freedom, go from us in peace. May your chains sit lightly upon you, and may posterity forget that you were our countrymen! - Samuel Adams
Apart from what's currently in the handbook, this is the best source I've found on the issue.
As I talk to people, I know a handful of folks who carry in church with their Bishop's full knowledge and appreciation. I know a bigger handful of folks who carry without anyone's knowledge.
LM
__________________
And I'd discuss the holy books with the learned men, seven hours every day. That would be the sweetest thing of all.
There are armed security personnel at the Conference Center. SLCPD also has a uniformed presence outside during conference.
Yes we are vulnerable at our churches. In my ward, there are four police officers who are active. Two of us carry, one does not and one I'm not sure about. I know my bishop is comfortable having us there and armed.
Recently I attended a "preparedness" discussion in a private home with about 4 men and it seemed nearly 20 women. Among the women were 2 AZ state senators. When the discussion got around to personal protection and guns, I noticed some of the women talked enthusiastically about having guns. So I asked "How many of you ladies pack heat?" Well over half, including the 2 senators, 'fessed up to carrying guns on occasion.
There are some non members, including some at work, that have made the "I'll raid the mormons I have a gun" comment. At times I will chime in and tell them that most mormons don't actually store food and the ones that do are heavily armed.
I've asked the Lord to sent those people to my house, in an effort to spare the many memebers in my ward who are not prepared to defend themselves or their families.
