HOKE COUNTY, N.C. -- The Hoke County sheriff told a group of pastors and imams on Saturday that they should take several steps to protect local churches and mosques from violence.

The message comes after the recent Texas church shooting tragedy.

This is the second time in two years Sheriff Hubert Peterkin has held this kind of discussion.

His officers did a mock demonstration for the group showing some ways to disarm someone with a gun.

They also suggested ways for the churches themselves to beef up their security.

"The congregation is going to have to know that they are empowered at that moment to react and they're not going to have a lot of time to do that," said Sheriff Peterkin.

The Sheriff's Office has increased patrols near houses of worship.

Peterkin also says he's gotten strong support from other sheriffs, and believes similar programs will be held in other counties.