General Secretary of the Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) Reverend Newton Dixon says churches that can afford it, should utilize the services of armed security guards.

His comment follows a deadly shooting at the Montego-Bay New Testament Church of God in St. James, yesterday.

38-year-old businesswoman Corra Thompson of Cumber Avenue Montego Bay was shot and killed at the church entrance, while a service was taking place inside the building.

Speaking with IRIE FM News this morning Reverend Dixon said with the lack of respect for life and God, being shown by criminals, having armed security at churches is a necessity.

He said the society must find a way to reverse the disregard for life that has gripped the nation.