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.
Diocesan members Jeff Wunrow and Janet Hyde are serving as associate missioners of this ministry. They lead a team who serves as the Gun Violence Prevention Advisory Committee, whose work centers on promoting gun safety, legislative advocacy, and education. You can reach them at [email protected].
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
Get information about current issues at the Missouri State Capitol and contact your state lawmakers through our Voter Voice action center:
Ministry News
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.
Wear Orange for Gun Violence Awareness
The weekend of June 2-4, 2023, Episcopal Churches across the Diocese of Missouri are invited to participate in “Wear Orange Day” in honor of victims and survivors of gun violence across our country.
Gun Violence Prevention: A Call to Action
Engage with a group of Episcopalians across the Diocese responding to legislative issues, providing education, and praying together for an end to gun violence.
Promoting gun sense
The Rev. Mary Haggerty, our new Missioner for Gun Violence Prevention Advocacy, invites us to raise our voices in support of common sense gun laws.