When Zoning Overrides Freedom of Religion

“Church Lawsuits Aim to Sidestep Local Zoning Rules” (May 19) failed to address why Congress unanimously adopted the law. It’s because local land-use decisions invariably ignore important 1st Amendment principles. Religion is not entitled to “special treatment,” except to the extent that the right to practice religion freely is protected by the 1st Amendment.

This right doesn’t mean much when cities tell churches to get out of town, which has happened in California, or when cities shut down prayer meetings in people’s homes, which has also taken place. Congress stepped in to rein in local government, which was trampling on the rights of churches even to exist, much less to function and to serve the community.

Alan J. Reinach

Director, Public Affairs

& Religious Liberty

Pacific Union Conference

of Seventh-day Adventists

Westlake Village

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Now I’ve heard everything: a city that wants to take property away from a church to sell it to Costco! I thought eminent domain was supposed to be used for really important purposes. Since when did making sure thousands of people can’t worship together, but can shop together, become such an important purpose?

Pastor Bradford C. Newton

Sacramento