In the aftermath of a week in which the First Amendment’s assurance that Americans would be allowed the free exercise of religion was tested as rarely before in the nation’s history, Attorney General William Barr has announced that the federal government will be investigating limits placed on church attendance amid the coronavirus pandemic.
In many states, social distancing guidelines have voluntarily limited church attendance, while in others, the government has actively banned services.
The limits on church attendance, coming as they did just before Easter, led to flashpoints across America where churches and secular authorities came in conflict.
Kansas Gov Wins Court Battle On Church Restrictions – https://t.co/qJBuNXsqGs pic.twitter.com/bN3RKwK0pO
— JoeMyGod (@JoeMyGod) April 12, 2020
Indiana's Governor has at the last minute ordered all church buildings shut in the state, "placing restrictions on churches that do not apply to other organizations, groups of people, and establishments." https://t.co/EsHXybyQGz
— Ben Domenech (@bdomenech) April 10, 2020
“Santa Ana Police Dep crack down on the annual tradition of cars cruising on Easter Sunday” … “People may not leave their homes for … drive-up services or to pick up non-essential items such as pre-packaged Easter eggs or bags filled w/ candy & toys.” https://t.co/cIH24xX35A
— Jim DeMint (@JimDeMint) April 10, 2020
The conflicts led to a Saturday tweet from Kerri Kupiec, director of communication and public affairs for the Department of Justice.
“During this sacred week for many Americans, AG Barr is monitoring govt regulation of religious services,” she said. “While social distancing policies are appropriate during this emergency, they must be applied evenhandedly & not single out religious orgs. Expect action from DOJ next week!”
Dantheman