NEW FAIRFIELD, Conn. (AP) - Religious leaders are seeking to prepare themselves in the case of outside aggressors threatening their congregations.

Instructors from the Connecticut State Police Training Academy held an active aggressor training for faith leaders and parishioners at the New Life United Methodist Church on Sunday.

New Life Pastor Chris Yount says he heard about trainings around the state and thought it seemed like a good idea to one at the church. Yount says the congregation just wants to "be able to protect ourselves," in the event of a shooter or aggressor situation. The training was attended by over 80 pastors, a rabbi and parishioners from 13 different churches in several towns to include New Fairfield, New Milford, Bethel, Avon, S. Meriden, Lakeville, Sharon, Naugatuck and Danbury.