Overview
- Video clips posted online show people in camouflage carrying air or paintball-style rifles staging a mock firing squad that shoots a person dressed as the devil while children chant and watch.
- The footage went viral and drew swift condemnation from gun-violence prevention advocates and local clergy who say the realistic tactics and child participation risk traumatizing youngsters.
- Pastor Dewayne Walker defended the skit in a Facebook video as a decades-long Vacation Bible School tradition meant to symbolize spiritual warfare and said the props were symbolic.
- Lexington police confirmed they received multiple calls and tips after the clip circulated, and social platforms have removed or archived some copies of the video.
- Supporters say the church runs an interactive VBS and worry the viral clip will overshadow years of community work, while critics say the episode raises questions about safety in youth programs and platform moderation.