A church in Pennsylvania is urging its members to bring in their AR-15 assault rifles so they can perform a special “blessing ceremony” on the weapons of war that they believe to be instruments of God.
The World Peace and Unification Sanctuary in Newfoundland is an offshoot of the infamous “Moonie” church, which is best known for conducting mass weddings. The church says that it’s expecting around 600 couples to participate in its Feb. 28 event, stating that they believe the AR-15 represent’s the “rod of iron,” mentioned in the bible.
A senior church official was positively giddy with excitement when discussing the upcoming event.
“This will be a big thing for us. It’s a new stage for us because it incorporates the rod of iron, as it is in Revelations. Revelations talks about the returning Christ ruling with the rod of iron,” church rep Tim Elder told local ABC affiliate Newswatch 16.
But wait what about couples who can’t afford to buy an AR-15? Great news! Elder says those unfortunate souls without God’s “rod of iron” can purchase a $700 gift certificate from their favorite gun store to present as evidence of their intent to buy their own copy of the deadly killing machine that recently slaughtered 17 innocent lives at a high school in Parkland, Florida.
Meanwhile, the church maintains that the event was planned well before the shooting, which took place on Valentine’s Day. And they stated that they believe their ceremony has no connection “since we have no ill intent and since these firearms are for self-defense.” The “Christian” cult also seemed to echo, Donald Trump’s call for teachers across America to take up arms in the classroom.
“Regarding the school shootings, if any of the teachers had been allowed to carry a firearm, many lives could have been saved. Several states have passed legislation to allow exactly that,” president Richard Panzer told the Scranton Times-Tribune.
Elder assured the press that the AR-15s would be inspected to ensure that they are unloaded, and they will also be secured with zip ties. However, parents at an elementary school just short distance from the church are not feeling reassured.
It’s something I would consider keeping my child home. It’s scary,” Liz Zoccola told Newswatch 16.
Coincidently, the Moon family happens to own a local gun manufacturing company called Kahr Arms, which I’m sure has nothing to do with their event.
Sounds like an absolutely lovely time. Kind of reminds me of the parable of Jesus blessing a rocket launcher. Heartwarming.
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