On September 10, pastors and faith leaders from the United States, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, and Liberia gathered for a two-part international event titled "Human Rights, Religious Freedom and the Essence of Faith" and the "1st Word Exchange — Assembly of New York Pastors." The event, broadcast from New York and followed by an in-person gathering, focused on protecting religious freedom and human dignity while fostering unity among churches through dialogue. The timing and location underscore a growing global concern: the detention of 95-year-old Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman Lee Man-hee in South Korea for approximately 70 days, despite his advanced age and health issues.
The first part of the event delivered a clear message: religious freedom must be defended not only when one's own beliefs are at stake but also when people of different faiths face prejudice, discrimination, or injustice. Pastor Marc Thompson of Unity Baptist Church of Mattituck, New York, appealed directly to the conscience of the church, stating, "Would the real church please stand up—for justice, human rights and religious freedom. Enough is enough. Let Chairman Lee go." His words echoed a sentiment shared by other leaders who see the detention as a broader threat to religious rights worldwide.
From Chicago, Pastor Lucilla Richards Seaton of Power, Prayer and Praise Ministries warned that the issue extends far beyond one religious community, expressing concern that religious rights are being threatened globally. Rev. Hallie Foard of Allen AME Cathedral reflected on the strength that emerges when believers across nations stand together, emphasizing that love for God can unite people despite differences in background. Bishop John Montalvo of ELIM House of Worship described the gathering as impactful because people of different nationalities, languages, and backgrounds came together in fellowship. He stressed love, respect, understanding, and dialogue rather than attacking those with differing beliefs.
The pastors' reflections raise a fundamental question: If religious freedom is guaranteed only for those with whom we agree, is it truly religious freedom? This question lies at the heart of the event's call for churches to recognize that protecting human dignity and religious liberty is not the responsibility of one denomination, one nation, or one religious community. It requires all people of faith to stand together. The event also highlighted the importance of international cooperation, as seen in the diverse representation from five regions.
The second half of the event, the "1st Word Exchange — Assembly of New York Pastors," focused on turning advocacy into action. Faith leaders from various denominations gathered under the vision of the Beautiful Bridge Project to share beliefs, listen to one another, and seek greater understanding of the Bible. The purpose was not to ignore doctrinal differences but to create a space where those differences would not prevent pastors from sitting together, listening sincerely, and allowing the Word of God to become a bridge. Apostle Ralph Pritchard emphasized moving beyond traditions and divisions that hinder God's work, appreciating the Word Exchange as a place for open discussion and fellowship without judgment. Pastor Tyrone Freeman of Hope International Church expressed gratitude for the unity experienced and a desire to participate in the next Word Exchange.
This news matters because it signals a growing ecumenical movement that transcends denominational and national boundaries to defend religious freedom. The detention of a 95-year-old religious leader has become a rallying point for pastors across five regions, highlighting concerns about the treatment of religious minorities and the potential erosion of religious liberties globally. By uniting in support of Chairman Lee, these faith leaders are challenging the notion that religious freedom can be selective and are calling for a collective responsibility to protect human dignity. The event also demonstrates that dialogue and unity can be achieved even amidst theological differences, offering a model for addressing religious persecution through peaceful advocacy and relationship-building. As religious tensions rise in various parts of the world, such solidarity may influence public opinion and policy, underscoring the importance of standing together for justice and human rights.
