There has been a lot of reaction to the mass shooting at a Texas church last weekend. Much of it has been centered around the push for more gun control.

One Oswego County group is inviting its members to bring their guns to services. Pastor Ronald Russell preaches at the Lighthouse Mexico Church of God. A sign in front of the building reads that it is "not a gun free zone."

The church began to openly allow guns after the South Carolina church shooting in 2015. Russell says he knew that other church shootings would follow like that in Texas last week, so this is a protective measure for the church.

He says it’s about keeping his church members safe.

“Times are changing,” said Russell. "It’s not the congregation, per se, but the leadership. People say 'well, pastor, you’re talking about killing some,' and I say 'well, if I don’t protect my people, I’m being complicit.' A shooting here, that’s not going to happen."

The church also offers training. Programs are designed to teach self defense and help identify any suspicious behavior.