In concurrence with letters published on June 16, I would like to add my own rationale for my hesitation in embracing the policy adopted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Violent crime today is simply unbridled by any stretch of the imagination. Gang wars rage in every part of America. Churches are being burned to the ground by the riotous acts of bigots and nefarious criminals.Truly, there has been no more baneful a society since the days of Sodom and Gomorrah.
It is these acts of violence that brings me to question the wisdom of the prophet's counsel. I, personally, have lost count of the number of times a crazed gunman has entered a chapel during services and opened fire with an assault rifle. Sunday Schools are now virtually under the control of the gangs, who have adopted this forum to wage their senseless wars. And to even attempt to downplay the weekly shootings in Primary would be a futile act on my part.
"In God We Trust" means nothing, as he has obviously abandoned those who choose to spend part of their week in reverence of him. Therefore, the only solution is to allow, no, even encourage, churchgoers to arrive at their places of worship "packing." It's only common sense.
Jonathan E. McCoy
South Jordan