Resolution Condemns Church Disruption, Reaffirms Religious Freedom, and Praises DOJ Probe

Alright, let's talk about a new resolution that's hitting the floor, because it’s a pretty direct statement about something that went down and what it means for everyone's right to worship in peace. This isn't a new law adding regulations or changing your tax bracket, but more of an official statement from Congress that packs a punch.

Protecting Sacred Spaces

This resolution kicks off by condemning a specific incident: a protest that reportedly disrupted a religious worship service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, back on January 18, 2026. According to the findings, individuals entered the sanctuary, shouted over clergy, and generally created a threatening environment for people trying to practice their faith. Think about it: you're at your place of worship, whether it's a church, mosque, or synagogue, seeking some peace or community, and suddenly, it's chaos. That's exactly the kind of disruption this resolution is calling out. It highlights that the First Amendment guarantees the right to worship without intimidation, and places of worship have a 'uniquely protected position' under federal law.

The FACE Act and Unprotected Actions

Now, this isn't just about good manners; there are actual laws at play. The resolution points to the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act), which makes it unlawful to use force or obstruction to interfere with someone exercising their religious beliefs at a place of worship. This act isn't just for clinics, as the name might suggest; it covers religious institutions too. So, if you're thinking about protesting, this resolution is a clear reminder that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, disrupting a worship service is 'not protected speech' and could lead to criminal penalties and civil remedies. It’s a line in the sand: your right to protest ends where someone else's right to worship begins.

A Public Figure's Role and DOJ's Action

Here’s where it gets a bit more specific. The resolution finds that, according to reports and video, Don Lemon was present during this disruption and 'actively joined individuals participating in the disturbance.' The resolution doesn't pull punches, stating that a 'nationally recognized media figure' participating in such an event is a 'profound abuse of public influence' and 'lends legitimacy to unlawful conduct.' This isn't just about one person, but about the message it sends when influential figures appear to endorse such actions. On a more positive note, the resolution 'commends the Department of Justice for its prompt investigation' into the events and urges them to fully enforce the FACE Act and other relevant federal statutes. Essentially, it’s a call for authorities to ensure that everyone can worship freely and safely, without fear of intimidation.