Freedom To Worship Act Passes Texas Senate
Today at the Texas Capitol the Freedom to Worship Act, SB 26 by Texas Senator Angela Paxton received overwhelmingly bipartisan support with a final vote of 28-2 in the Texas Senate. SB 26 is now headed to the Texas House of Representatives where it is also expected to receive great support. SB 26 makes it clear that the government cannot force a church to close or lock its doors during a pandemic or other situations. Last year and still this year, some government officials are restricting churches from being open while allowing liquor stores, strip clubs and casinos continue to operate.
“Churches are essential and SB 26 makes it clear where Texas stands on this issue. Communities are served best when places of worship are open and the government respects their religious freedom,” said Jonathan Saenz, attorney and president of Texas Values.
In times of turmoil for many Americans, churches are absolutely essential to help the hurting. Churches are the one place people seek out when faced with spiritual, physical, and mental burdens. However, churches are restricted from helping when their doors are barred.
Attacks on churches during this pandemic overwhelmingly demonstrates our need to reaffirm that churches in the State of Texas are essential and must remain open. The Freedom to Worship Act is absolute necessary to protect the religious freedoms of Texans and we fully support SB 26.
Texas Pastor Council, Pastor Steve Riggle of Grace Woodlands, Pastor Danny Forshee of Great Hills Baptist Church, Reverend William Owens who is the President and Founder of the Coalition of African American Pastors (CAAP), Dr. Hernan Castano who is the President of the Texas Association of Ministers and Entrepreneurs, Pastor Tovar of Jordan River Church, Pastor Mike Weaver of Wild Ride Ministries, Pastor Charles Flowers of Faith Outreach Center, Pastor Cody Haynes of Faith Christian Cowboy Ministries, and Pastor Michael Burdick of Fredericksburg Victory Fellowship all support SB 26.
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About Texas Values
Texas Values is the largest statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to standing for faith, family, and freedom in Texas. More information is available at txvalues.org.