NEWS PROVIDED BY
Christian Defense Coalition
April 1, 2021

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2021 /Christian Newswire/ -- Federal District Judge, James E. Boasberg, denied Rev. Patrick Mahoney's request for injunction relief to hold a Good Friday prayer service on the lower western terrace of the Capitol.


Last year's Good Friday service at the lower western terrace of the Capitol where Rev. Mahoney intended to have this year's vigil.
 
Rev. Mahoney still plans to have a Good Friday service around a 15ft cross at the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial Statue in Union Square outside of the Capitol perimeter fence.

The service will be held on Friday, April 2, at 12:00 P.M.

Brian Chavez-Ochoa, who argued the case for Rev. Mahoney, states;

"While we are disappointed that the Court denied our Application for a Temporary Restraining Order, we are encouraged by the fact the judge allowed us to amend our complaint and to hold a Preliminary Injunction Hearing at a later date.  This matter is not over, and will not be, until the Government permits, once again, the ability for all Americans to exercise their God given First Amendment Rights at the Lower Western Terrace."

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, comments;

"Tragically, while business goes on at the United States Capitol Building without interruption, public and peaceful First Amendment activities are being prohibited. The federal court and government have in essence created a 'No Speech Zone' at the Capitol.

"Let's be clear, as of today, the United States Capitol Building is no longer 'The People's House,' but rather is a place where the First Amendment no longer applies.  For if free speech can be denied at the Capitol, then First Amendment rights are in danger in every community across America.

"However, in spite of this setback, we will continue to passionately, prayerfully and peacefully work to see the 'People's House' returned to the people and the First Amendment once again honored and cherished at the United States Capitol.

"Tomorrow, we will press forward with our Good Friday Service praying for the healing of our nation and sharing the powerful message of Christ's enduring love and commitment to humanity through his death on the cross."

For more information on interviews call:
Attorney Brian Chavez-Ochoa at:   209.772.3013
Rev. Patrick Mahoney at:  540.538.4741

SOURCE Christian Defense Coalition

CONTACT: Brian Chavez-Ochoa, 209-772-3013;
Rev. Patrick Mahoney, 540-538-4741