The CEO of a Mustang publishing company said it was “business as usual” on Friday, a day after he fired 25 people in a move he announced in a staff meeting marked by threats and prayer.

“We let 25 go yesterday — hated it,” said Ryan Tate, head of Tate Publishing.

During the staff meeting, which was recorded, Tate sprinkled biblical references with the stern announcement.

Tate, who opened the meeting with a prayer, said he had been too tolerant of workers who posted their opinions and suggestions about the company online or in anonymous emails. “I should have just fired you on the spot.”