Local Church Considers More Security Measures After Charleston Shootings
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It’s a tragedy that touches hearts across the nation and world.
But here at St. John’s AME church in Montgomery, the news of the Charleston shootings at their sister church was especially hard to hear.
“To me, it says we are in difficult times and there is a mean spirit going across America. And we’ve advanced too far to be going backwards,” said Rev. James Arnell.
Rev. Arnell says security measures are already in place at the church with a security officer on Sunday mornings. But he says there may have to be more security considered for other times during the week.
“We’ll have to consider having a security person. Cameras–yes, because had it not been for the security cameras at Mother Emanuel, they never would have identified the person who did these crimes.”
Arnell says this has been something the church has talked about for a year, but now in light of the events in Charleston, the process may need to be implemented sooner rather than later.
In the meantime, he says he wants his congregation to still trust God.
And know that He is in control.
“These are the things we can do. Preach: still there is hope. Hope in Jesus always. Even though this is a bad situation, something good will still come out of it. Most of all, the Lord will bring us through this.”
A city wide prayer service for the Charleston victims will be held Friday at noon at St John’s AME Church at 807 Madison Ave in Montgomery. The public is invited to attend.
