LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) - A Louisville church is inviting gun
owners to bring their pistols to the church to celebrate the Fourth
of July and the Second Amendment.

New Bethel Church is welcoming "responsible handgun owners" to
wear their firearms Saturday, June 27 at the church. An Internet ad
for the event says there will be a handgun raffle, patriotic music
and information on gun safety.

Church pastor Ken Pagano says guns must be unloaded at the event and private security will check visitors at the door.

Marian McClure Taylor, executive director of the Kentucky
Council of Churches, says Christian churches work to prevent
violent harm and promote peace, but most "allow for arms to be
taken up under certain conditions."

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)