Minnesota Pastor Denounces Anti-ICE Protesters Who Disrupted Church Service
ST. PAUL, Minn. — A Sunday service at The Cities Church in St. Paul was abruptly interrupted by anti-ICE protesters who shouted slogans and intimidated parishioners, including children, in an incident that has since gone viral. The disruption sparked condemnation from the church’s pastor, Jonathan Parnell, who described the actions as “shameful” and “unlawful.”
The protesters targeted the congregation amid allegations that Pastor Parnell had collaborated with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. During the service, the agitators shouted anti-ICE slogans and berated churchgoers for not opposing federal immigration raids more vigorously. These raids, conducted by ICE, have focused on removing illegal immigrant criminals from the region, part of a broader enforcement effort supported by the Department of Homeland Security.
In a statement released Tuesday, Pastor Parnell expressed deep concern over the disruption, emphasizing that the protesters’ behavior went beyond peaceful demonstration. “They accosted members of our congregation, frightened children, and created a scene marked by intimidation and threat,” he said. The pastor called on community and political leaders to protect places of worship from such invasions, underscoring the need for respect and safety in sacred spaces.
The incident has drawn national attention, with discussions emerging about the limits of protest and the protection of religious gatherings. Legal experts note that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, actions that intimidate or threaten individuals inside a place of worship may cross into unlawful conduct. Federal authorities have not yet announced any charges related to the disruption.
The Cities Church has a history of engagement with social issues, and Pastor Parnell has publicly supported cooperation with federal immigration authorities in efforts to address criminal activity linked to illegal immigration. This stance has made the church a focal point for activists opposed to ICE’s policies.
According to data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, ICE operations nationwide have intensified in recent years, reflecting the federal government’s broader crackdown on illegal immigration. These efforts have sparked protests and counter-protests across the country, often placing community organizations and religious institutions in the middle of contentious debates.
The church’s leadership has urged calm and reflection, encouraging parishioners to remain steadfast in their faith despite the disruption. “We must be a light in the darkness,” Pastor Parnell said, calling for unity and respect among all parties involved.
The incident at The Cities Church highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the challenges faced by communities caught between activism and law enforcement. As these debates continue, the protection of religious freedom and public safety remains a critical concern for local and federal officials alike.
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