Virginia Church Cannot Hold Bible Studies by Josh Montez
7/07/2006
 
http://family.org/cforum/fnif/news/a0041177.cfm

The Fairfax County church was told by county officials that it cannot hold the studies at its building unless it’s recognized as a college or university.

McLean Bible Church does what places of worship have been doing for centuries, teach the Bible. Part of that endeavor includes allowing Capitol Bible Seminary to use its facility for Bible study courses. Here’s Colby May of the American Center for Law and Justice.

“They wanted to equip their community and their body with a larger understanding and an opportunity for a larger understanding of the scriptures in accordance with that curriculum as it’s laid out.”

But Fairfax County put a halt to the studies saying the church doesn’t have permission to hold Bible studies and other ministries involving teaching. And if the church wishes to continue the courses, they need to be recognized as a college or seminary.

“The very idea that the county would say you’re current use authorization as a church does not include the ability to conduct Bible study and seminary classes is just simply intolerable.”

ACLJ filed suit citing free speech and free exercise rights hoping to get the county to back off. Roger Severino with the Becket Fund has a recommendation for the government officials.

“They should amend their zoning code to make it clear that religious uses are allowed when they include teaching of the faith in a structured setting.”

No comment from Fairfax County.