At end, why werent they all inside?

They knew the birds were coming, they were warned very early and still they went to the middle of the city to pray and be together. Why not go inside their dwellings and be safe? I know, it wouldn't have been so dramatic, but I think it made them look stupid for all the smart things they did and live for. Just my opinion. I loved the movie. Was like a Jules Vern book....don't know who wrote it, guess I should look it up. haha