Christian leaders urge protection of worshippers' rights after service interruption

Faith leaders urged protecting worshippers' rights and compassion for migrants after protesters interrupted a Sunday service at Cities Church in St. Paul; the U.S. Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation.

Protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul and interrupted a Sunday service, which reports say ended prematurely. Several faith leaders responded by calling for protection of worshippers' rights while also expressing compassion for migrants. The U.S. Department of Justice announced a civil rights inquiry following the incident. Key facts: - About three dozen people entered the church during service, and the service was reported to have ended early. - Multiple Christian leaders and groups urged safeguarding worshippers' rights and also mentioned pastoral care for migrant families. - The Department of Justice said it opened a civil rights investigation and cited potential violations of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. - The DOJ notified a federal appeals court that it will appeal a ruling limiting federal officers' ability to detain or use tear gas on peaceful protesters in the Minneapolis area. Summary: Faith leaders described the interruption as a serious disruption and called for protections for congregations alongside compassion for migrants. Federal action is underway through a civil rights inquiry and a planned appeal in federal court, and further outcomes are undetermined at this time.