[CS-FSLUG] CHRISTIANS FACE 47 YEARS IN PRISON

[Josiah Ritchie]

On Wed, 2005-01-05 at 17:07 -0500, Don Parris wrote:
> On Wed, 5 Jan 2005 14:49:34 -0500, Fred A. Miller <fmiller at lightlink.com> wrote:
> > PENNSYLVANIA CHRISTIANS FACE 47 YEARS IN PRISON FOR READING THE BIBLE IN
> > PUBLIC
> > 
> > What we have been saying has now happened. You cannot quote what the
> > Bible has to say about homosexuality in public or you will be charged
> > with a "hate crime." Philadelphia is only the beginning. If we fail to
> > take a stand here, this "crime" will soon be applied across America.
> > 
> > In the 27 years of this ministry, I have never witnessed a more
> > outrageous miscarriage of justice than what is happening in
> > Philadelphia. Four Christians are facing up to 47-years in prison and
> > $90,000 in fines for preaching the Gospel on a public sidewalk, a
> > right fully protected by the First Amendment.
> > 
> > On October 10, 2004, the four Christians were arrested in
> > Philadelphia. They are part of "Repent America." Along with founder
> > Michael Marcavage, members of Repent America-with police
> > approval--were preaching near "Outfest", a homosexual event, handing
> > out Gospel literature and carrying banners with Biblical messages.
> > 
> <SNIP>
> 
> O.k.  I stand corrected.  I had just told my wife over Christmas
> weekend that we would see persecution _within_ the next 10-20 years. 
> I see now that I'm about three months behind the times. I also told my
> daughter she would likely see me jailed for my beliefs.

I find that a little unbelievable. Not saying it isn't true, but the
harsh nature is... surprising.

JSR/