SUN VALLEY, CA — On August 14th, a California Court ruled in favor of Pastor John MacArthur and Grace Community Church, finding that churches are ‘essential’ and have the constitutionally protected right to remain open. This established that the government cannot prevent churches from holding indoor services in their sanctuaries.
Following Grace Community Church filing a suit challenging Los Angeles County’s restrictions on churches and places of worship, Los Angeles County filed a temporary restraining order. This order attempted to force Grace Community Church to stop holding indoor services.
Judge James Chalfant denied nearly all of the County’s requests, ruling in favor of Pastor MacArthur and Grace Community Church, while also expressing concern for safety protocols. Nevertheless, the ruling found that the County had no right to infringe on the constitutionally protected rights of churches to freely exercise their religion.
“I am very grateful the Court has allowed us to meet inside and we are happy for a few weeks to comply and respect what the judge has asked of us because he is allowing us to meet,” Pastor MacArthur stated. “This vindicates our desire to stay open and serve our people. This also gives us an opportunity to show that we are not trying to be rebellious or unreasonable, but that we will stand firm to protect our church against unreasonable, unconstitutional restrictions.”
MacArthur has pastored Grace Community Church since February 9, 1969, serves as the President of Master’s Seminary, and is also international known for his Grace to You media ministry.
