LAKELAND, Fla. – At church services Sunday, religious leaders across the county are expressing support for the Taiwanese congregation that was targeted by a gunman last week in California.

One parishioner was killed and several others were wounded.

This incident brought up a former debate – if having a concealed firearm within a church building is appropriate.

A Tampa church went viral back in 2017 after posting signs outside of their building that read “This is not a gun-free zone, we are heavily armed.” The pastors at that church, River at Tampa Bay, said safety was their number one priority for their members.

Since then, other churches have come forward saying they also allow guns in their building.

In 2021, Gov. Ron Desantis signed the “church carry” bill which allows concealed permit holders to have their guns with them in churches, synagogues and other religious institutions – even if they share properties with a school. However, the law does not limit the private property rights of churches so, they can still choose whether firearms are allowed on their property.

“We’ve always allowed guns inside, as long as they're legal. I don’t even notice it,” said Pastor Harry Walter of Combee Connection ministry in Lakeland. “We don’t have a problem with it."

Combee Connection ministry opened their doors to people from all walks of life back in 2017. Assistant Pastor Harry Walter said protecting the children of the church is a priority for him and his members.

“Our congregation is growing and we favor our children and we want to make sure they're safe [and] not only with their parents here,” said Pastor Walter. “But there are rules. They have to have a permit to carry that gun. If not, we’ll take measure to get rid of it, but if they have the permit and all the paperwork, we welcome them here, for a couple different reasons. Protection is one.”

Pastor Walter and several other church members said they have never had an issue with someone bringing a gun into the church.

“It’s just something I don’t think about,” said member Dave Kassar. “It’s a place to worship and if somebody is properly licensed and trained, that’s fine. Let them do that.”

Combee Connection Church assists the homeless community, aids new mothers and plays an active role in cleaning up the streets. The ministry also offers transitional mentorship for those who have suffered from drug addictions.