Dear Kelly, This week, our team at the Independence Law Center filed a lawsuit on behalf of a Pittsburgh area family in response to a Cease and Desist Order by government officials that orders them to stop hosting Bible studies on their private property. The case has already attracted national attention. Let me tell you more about the case. We filed a lawsuit on behalf of Scott and Terri Fetterolf after they were ordered by officials with the Sewickley Heights Borough to stop using their 35-acre farm from hosting Bile studies, worship events, religious retreats, or religious fundraisers, something they and the prior owner have done for decades. This Cease and Desist Order imposes restrictions on the Fetterolfs' activities that really are only applicable to places like churches and synagogues or to schools. The order explicitly points to a worship night, a retreat, and a Bible study as violations of the Borough's zoning ordinance. When the Fetterolfs sought clarification from the Borough in hopes that they could at least hold some of their events like Bible studies, prayer meetings, two youth group events, and a fundraiser for a religious non-profit, they learned that they would continue to risk prosecution for these activities. Everywhere in America, people have book clubs, meetings, parties for young people, and fundraisers. As these secular activities are surely permitted, their religious counterparts cannot be categorically banned. As you can imagine, it is not just the couple involved that is troubled by this order. I recently spoke with Todd Starnes (Fox News) on his radio program, and the story is certainly spreading. News coverage
Fox News | Tribune Review | OneNewsNow | Washington Watch - FRC (27-minute mark) Independence Law Center is a Pennsylvania-based, pro-bono legal organization dedicated to advancing civil rights. We're here to protect your religious freedom and First Amendment rights. We're here to protect your religious freedom and other fundamental rights. We will keep you informed as this case unfolds. Sincerely, Randall Wenger
Chief Counsel
Independence Law Center | 
