A Wichita-based organization, the Holy Kingdom of Judah, is preparing to host a community gun buyback event later this month, combining violence prevention efforts with a broader mission centered on identity, spirituality and unity.
The event, organized through the group’s Judah Tribal Council of Chiefs, is scheduled for March 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the organization’s office at 1741 N. Poplar.
The Holy Kingdom of Judah describes itself as a modern tribal nation rooted in ancient biblical tradition. Leaders say the movement was formally organized around 2017, though members say their ancestry traces back to the Tribe of Judah, one of the 12 tribes descended from the patriarch Jacob in the Hebrew Bible.
Their beliefs are grounded in monotheism—the worship of one God—and they also recognize Jesus as a spiritual figure within that tradition. However, leaders say the group does not operate as a traditional church. Instead of gathering in formal houses of worship, they say their faith is expressed through community engagement, education and cultural restoration.
Organizers describe their work as teaching people about identity, spiritual principles and peaceful living. Community initiatives, including the upcoming gun buyback program, are part of that mission. Leaders say the effort reflects their belief that protecting life, promoting peace and preventing harm—especially among children and young people—are essential expressions of their spiritual values.
Leaders of the organization describe the buyback effort as voluntary, inviting individuals to turn in firearms they no longer want or need. Participants may receive compensation ranging from $20 to $300 depending on the type of firearm. All eligible weapons collected during the event are intended to be destroyed.
“We’re not here to force anything,” one of the chiefs said. “If someone has a firearm they no longer need, they can bring it in. Our goal is to remove even one weapon—that alone makes an impact.”
Unlike many gun buyback programs that are led by local governments or law enforcement agencies, this initiative is being organized independently by the group. Leaders say that while the organization is not federally recognized, it intends to operate within existing laws and safety protocols. Any firearms found to be illegal, altered or tampered with will be turned over to appropriate authorities.
Organizers say the event will also include education about firearm safety, secure storage and conflict resolution. Spiritual counseling will be available through members of the organization, with an emphasis on healing and community support.
Safety procedures will include controlled intake of firearms and trained personnel responsible for dismantling weapons on site using specialized tools and disposal equipment. Certificates of destruction will be issued for firearms that are dismantled, and those records will be submitted for documentation.
Organizers say their success will not be measured solely by the number of firearms collected, but by the conversations and awareness created in the community.
“Whether we receive one firearm or many, the goal is education and unity,” a chief said. “If people walk away thinking differently about violence and peace, then we’ve done our job.”
As Wichita continues to explore solutions to violence, the Holy Kingdom of Judah’s effort reflects a community-driven approach that blends safety initiatives with cultural and spiritual outreach.