Are we willing to allow one person, whether state or local, to have the unchecked discretion to write a church into or out of existence by one word – the word “essential.”
ORLANDO, FL – Whether churches are “essential” in the midst of this Coronavirus crisis is a critical question that must take into consideration many factors. The related question – whether churches should open or close – must be considered in the context of each church and community.
Before addressing these questions, it is important to present the real facts surrounding the recent arrest of the pastor of The River at Tampa Bay. Many of the statements made by Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister are false. His statements have put both the pastor and the church in danger.
