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On a Sunday morning, thirty protestors from the so-called Racial Justice Network entered Cities Church, disrupting the service with chants against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest targeted one pastor who was rumored to work for ICE, though he was not present that day.

Pastor Jonathan Parnell, lead pastor of Cities Church, called the invasion “shameful” and emphasized that churches are sacred spaces meant for worship, prayer, and the teaching of God‘s Word. “Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God, lived, died, and rose again for the rescue of all who put their faith in Him,” Parnell said. “He offers a love that transcends cultures, borders, policies, and politics. As those who have been loved and rescued by Him, we will not shrink from worshiping Jesus, nor will we stop ‘teaching and proclaiming the Gospel that Jesus is the Messiah’ (Acts 5:42).”

Christian leaders nationwide have echoed Parnell’s call to protect religious freedom. Evangelist Franklin Graham urged believers to pray for Minnesota and to uphold the constitutional right to worship without intimidation. “We must protect our religious liberty in America,” Graham said. Likewise, Pastor Jentezen Franklin described the invasion as “a form of terrorism toward Christians and their families,” stressing that no one has the right to disrupt worship or threaten the safety of congregants.

The Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention also released a statement, calling on local and state leaders to ensure churches remain safe. Executive Director Trey Turner reminded the public that many congregations serve diverse communities, including immigrants. “Two-thirds of our churches in Minnesota are ethnic congregations,” Turner said. “They are ministering faithfully in the midst of uncertainty. Recognizing their efforts can help lower tensions and foster understanding.”

Scripture reminds believers of the importance of peace and lawful conduct. Romans 13:1 instructs, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” Likewise, 1 Peter 2:17 encourages Christians to “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” These verses underscore that while believers may engage respectfully in civic matters, God calls His people to demonstrate love, order, and patience, even when facing hostility.

Church leaders also emphasized the spiritual response to conflict. Pastor Steve Gentry of Village Church in Virginia reminded Christians to stand firm in faith while showing Christ-like patience. “We are called to love our neighbors, even when they act in opposition,” he said. Ephesians 6:13-14 exhorts, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes… stand firm with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.”

The incident serves as a reminder that the Church is not insulated from societal conflict, yet it remains a beacon of God’s truth and peace. Leaders continue to encourage prayer, lawful action, and steadfast worship, ensuring that sanctuaries remain a refuge where the message of Christ is proclaimed without fear.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo From cbn.com