Hundreds of worshipers are gathered inside a Pennsylvania-based church at a blessing ceremony for couples featuring their AR-15 rifles.
World Peace and Unification Sanctuary in Newfoundland believes the AR-15 symbolizes the "rod of iron" in the biblical book of Revelation, and encouraged couples to bring the weapons to Wednesday morning's commitment ceremony.
The event is meant to give couples an opportunity "to show their willingness to defend their families, communities and nation," The Times-Tribune reported last week.
About 50 weapons, secured by orange zip-ties, were checked in Wednesday morning.
Two protesters waved signs outside.
Nearby schools were closed for the day due to worries about parking, traffic and the "nature of the event."