Gun Violence Prevention
The Diocese of Missouri is committed to doing all we can to end the pandemic of gun violence. We do this through advocacy, prayer, public witness, and pastoral care.
The Rev. Mary Haggerty is our Missioner for Gun Violence Prevention. She leads a team who serves as the Gun Violence Prevention Advisory Committee, whose work centers on promoting gun safety, legislative advocacy, and education.
Gun Violence Prevention Advisory Committee Members:
- Donna Bernart - St. Francis Episcopal Church, Eureka
- Betty Bowersox - Grace Episcopal Church, Kirkwood
- Sally Boyd - St. Barnabas, Florissant
- Lore Gross - Christ Church Cathedral, St. Louis
- Colleen Haggerty - Grace Episcopal Church, Kirkwood
- Machelle West - The Episcopal Church of All Saints and Ascension, Northwoods
- Jeff Wunrow - Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Louis
Ministry News
Gun Violence Awareness Sunday: Dec. 10, 2023
The Rev. Mary Haggerty outlines ways churches and individuals can mark Gun Violence Awareness Sunday.
Be SMART: Step Five - Tell your peers to Be SMART
The final article in our series to protect children from gun violence is to tell others how to be SMART. Here's how you can share the information.
Be SMART: Step Four - Recognize the Role of Guns in Suicide
Our Be SMART campaign for gun violence prevention continues as we face difficult facts and figures when it comes to guns and suicide.
Be SMART: Step Three - Ask about unsecured guns in other homes
When our children visit other homes, we often ask about allergens, pets, or car seats for rides - things to keep our kids safe. We need to normalize asking about unsecured guns.
Be SMART: Step Two - Model Responsible Behavior
It is always an adult’s responsibility to prevent unauthorized access to guns, not a curious child’s responsibility to avoid guns.
Be SMART: Step One - Secure your guns
Our campaign to keep our children safe from gun violence begins with the importance of securing weapons in your home and vehicle.
Be SMART: A new campaign for gun safety
The Diocese of Missouri is committed to the work of preventing firearm tragedies involving children. The Rev. Mary Haggerty introduces us to a new program to help us all Be SMART about gun violence prevention.
Taking Action Against Gun Violence
From prayer vigils, to Sunday sermons, to marching in the streets, the Diocese of Missouri is engaging in efforts to end gun violence in our communities.
Gun Violence in America: Think, pray, act
Hundreds of people turn out in Webster Groves in a call to action against gun violence in America.
Missioner Profile: The Rev. Mary Haggerty
The Rev. Mary Haggerty is on a mission to raise awareness and help bring an end to gun violence in our communities.
Missioner for Gun Violence Prevention Advocacy
