We will be the first ones to admit that we were a little pessimistic. We had concerns.

We will also be the first ones to admit that we were wrong.

The stunning success of Macedonia Apostolic Church’s gun buy back program last weekend was far and above anything we could have imagined and proof such programs should be duplicated by other churches or any organization.

While we may contest the amount paid per gun might higher than other such programs, the fact that 57 guns were removed from the street, some that were no doubt illegal, according to police officials, was worth any dollar amount.

As handguns of nearly every caliber lined a fold-up table outside the church’s family center, and rifles lined the wall just behind, we could not help but think just how many more guns — how many more illegal guns — remain on the streets.

Just a few weeks ago, we listened as Fourth Judicial District Attorney Michael Jackson and some members of the Selma City Council offered some criticism of the proposed plans during a city council meeting. Their points were valid, but we admire the efforts of Bishop Robert Pettus for working with the Selma Police Department in orchestrating the highly successful program.

In just 50 minutes, organizers had run out of money and 57 guns — some of which might have one day been used in the commission of the crime — were off the streets, in the hands of the Selma Police Department and destined for a scrap heap.

Bishop Pettus is already looking for contributors to help fund the next buy back. Based on the success of Saturday’s buy back, we have learned our lesson, and will whole-heartedly support their efforts.