The Documentary Podcast Heart and Soul: Guns, grief and god
Apr 11, 2025
Frank Burnat, Senior Pastor at Bethlehem First United Methodist Church in Georgia, discusses the harrowing aftermath of a school shooting that devastated their community. He highlights the emotional toll on families and the students' resilience amid fear and anxiety. The conversation delves into the complex relationship between faith and gun ownership, as Burnat reflects on providing support to a grieving community. He underscores the urgent need for discussions around gun laws and mental health, revealing the paradox of navigating trauma while holding onto deeply rooted beliefs.
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Teacher's Terrifying Experience
- A teacher describes hiding with students during the shooting, hearing gunfire.
- They feared for their lives and the lives of the children they were protecting.
Pastor's Wife's Connection to Victim
- Pastor Frank Burnett's wife, an eighth-grade math teacher, knew Mason Shearmerhorn, one of the victims.
- She was devastated by his death, highlighting the personal impact on the community.
Child's Lockdown Experience
- Megan Gomez recounts her daughter's experience during a school lockdown.
- Classmates cried and expressed fear of dying, revealing the widespread anxiety among children and parents.