Christian Pastors and Leaders to Travel to Houston; Calling for Mayor Parker to Withdraw Subpoenas to Local Pastors

Rev. Patrick Mahoney : Oct 27, 2014
Christian Newswire

"Regardless of what the mayor's and city's intentions are or were, this is an egregious violation of a fundamental human right and constitutionally protected freedom. History proves violations like this must be challenged early and relentlessly."

(Houston, TX)—The City of Houston has demanded pastors turn over all their speeches, presentations and other materials related to their comments on the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance. (HERO) (Photo: Houston Pastor Steve Riggle/via Facebook/Christian Post)

The Christian Defense Coalition, the National Clergy Council and the League for the Defense of Pastors will hold a news conference on Tuesday, October 28, at 10:00 A. M.

The news conference will be held at 901 Bagby St. Houston, Texas.

After the news conference, the Christian leaders will go to Mayor Parker's office in hopes of securing a face to face meeting to share their concerns.

The faith leaders will also discuss launching a national campaign to address Houston's troubling crushing of the First Amendment and religious freedom should Houston fail to withdraw the subpoenas.

Rev. Rob Schenck, President of the National Clergy Council, states, "Regardless of what the mayor's and city's intentions are or were, this is an egregious violation of a fundamental human right and Constitutionally protected freedom. History proves violations like this must be challenged early and relentlessly.

"Church leaders of all denominations are organizing to support our colleagues in Houston. We will not rest until justice is preserved and protected."

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, adds, "Mayor Parker, it is troubling that your city has moved forward with such invasive actions which trample religious freedom guaranteed by the First Amendment. This appears to be an attempt by your administration to intimidate and silence pastors, churches and community leaders who disagree with you on HERO.

"It is our hope that Houston would foster policies that would create an atmosphere of tolerance and openness in the public square and embrace the principles of free speech and the First Amendment.

"It is important for you to understand that pastors and churches all across America are standing in solidarity with the "Houston Five," as we fully understand this is not just an attack on five local pastors but an attack on every church and pulpit in America.

"In light of that, if the City of Houston continues to move forward with these subpoenas, potential fines and imprisonment for these pastors who refuse to comply, we will give a national call inviting thousands of Christians to come to Houston and stand for religious freedom, the First Amendment and free speech."

Rev. Keith Tucci, President of the League for the Defense of Christian Pastors, shares, "The intolerance and misuse of power will not be treated as an inconvenience but a violation to worship God freely."