From time to time, the Diocese of Lansing is asked about its policy regarding guns in churches and schools. This page clarifies the Diocese’s stance on this issue.
Michigan law prohibits weapons in schools and prohibits open carry or concealed carry of firearms in a church without the permission of the owner. Bishop Boyea has never granted any blanket permissions and has advised diocesan pastors of his opposition to such permissions.
Michigan’s concealed carry law does permit certain categories of persons to concealed carry without obtaining the church’s permission. These categories of persons include police officers, retired police officers, employed security officers, and several other categories of those employed or retired from the criminal justice system. Many parishes have such individuals as members. Bishop Boyea encourages pastors, should they wish to do so, to collaborate with such individuals and local law enforcement to address any specific security concerns in the parish.
Updated: April 19, 2023