A church in California was locked out by its landlord after the congregation opted to hold services despite a state order against gatherings.
Cross Culture Christian Center in Lodi was unable to hold a planned service on Sunday due to its landlord, Bethel Open Bible Church, changing the locks on the building.
Jeremy Duncan, brother of Cross Culture Pastor Jon Duncan, told local media outlet Fox 2 of Oakland that he took issue with the restrictions on in-person worship.
“I’m not thrilled in general with the restriction on religious liberties,” said Duncan, “especially during what is Christians’ most holy week.”
Last week, the San Joaquin County Health Department ordered Cross Culture to close down in response to concerns over spreading the coronavirus.
Duncan told KTXL last week that his church planned to continue holding gatherings, which had a reported average worship attendance of around 30 people.
“The church, the assembly of God is the people of God gathering together,” said the pastor to KTXL, “regularly gathering together for the teaching of God’s Word, praying, worship, baptism, communion and fellowship.”
SOURCE: Christian Post, Michael Gryboski
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