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Play Time Is Over?

Discussion in 'General Baptist Discussions' started by HAMel, Sep 19, 2011.

  1. HAMel

    HAMel Well-Known Member
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    The title of the article says it all.
    The question is, is a Bible Study in a private home considered the establishment of a "religious" organization? I don't hardly think so but we are dealing with the land of fruits and nuts.

    City demands Christians get permit for Bible study
    Already fined $300, facing potential penalty of $500 per meeting

    Chuck and Stephanie Fromm already have been fined $300 for holding Bible studies for their friends at their home, and they face the potential for additional fines of $500 for each study held, according to a legal team taking their case to court.

    The newest conflict over Bible studies in homes in America arose in San Juan Capistrano, Calif., where city officials say city code section 9-3.301 prohibits religious organizations in residential neighborhoods without a conditional-use permit, a sometimes very expensive procedure.


    http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=345073
     
  2. sag38

    sag38 Active Member

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    Where is the ACLU when we really do need them! (sarcasm intended!)
     
  3. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    According to the radio, the Bible study had 20 people coming - (possibly acceptable), but on Sunday there were 40+ people. That I can understand. Imagine the parking situation. I just might side with the neighbors on this.

    When we started a church in Copperas Cove, Tx; the city told us that we would have to have a parking space for every 4 people in attendance. Sounds reasonable to me.

    In addition, with 40 + people coming, the singing just might disturb the neighbors as well.

    If they have 40 in attendance - then they should consider, getting a store front or some acceptable location.

    Now, does this law also pertain to May Kay parties, and ect?
     
  4. freeatlast

    freeatlast New Member

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    I looks like they are suing in court which they should as the law violates the constitution in my opinion.
    Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
     
  5. HAMel

    HAMel Well-Known Member
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    Well, if 40 + people are in attendance I can see the upset on the part of the neighbors...,

    Hey, if they need a bigger space then go rent a building.
     
  6. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    They are not being prohibiting from exercising their religion, but they should abide by other ordinances.

    F @ L, Please answer these questions:
    1. Should they be required to have a fire extinguisher
    2. Should they be required to have a working bathroom
    3. Should they file paperwork, so as not to have to pay sales tax on church purchases?
    4. Should they be required to have a reserved handicap parking spot(s)?
    5. Should the pastor be required to report suspected child abuse to the proper authorities
     
  7. Jim1999

    Jim1999 <img src =/Jim1999.jpg>

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    Let common sense prevail!

    Cheers,

    Jim
     
  8. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    Jim, I agree! Unfortunately in the USA, certain groups take some of the amendments of the Constitution to the utmost extreme.

    Perfect example: Oliver Wendell Holmes, a Supreme Court judge ruled that in spite of the freedom of speech, (First Amendment) you cannot yell fire in a crowded theater. Likewise all amendments do have some "common sense" limits.
     
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