A local Christian evangelist is speaking out against what he calls a troubling move by Rushmoor Borough Council, located in the United Kingdom, to limit street preaching in public spaces.
As reported by the BBC, Jamie Broadey of Aldershot expressed “shock” at the proposed injunction, warning that curbing religious expression contributes to “a weaker society.”
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The council has moved to restrict street preaching in the town centers of Aldershot and Farnborough after receiving at least 16 complaints, citing “harassment, alarm, distress and a public nuisance,” particularly from the use of loudspeakers and confrontational behavior.
/**/The council emphasized its position, stating, “The council would like to emphasize that we understand the sensitive nature of this issue and the legal action is not intended to prevent peaceful groups of any faith, including Christianity, from preaching, or in any way prevent freedom of speech.”
Broadey, however, believes Christians are being unfairly singled out. “If this kind of thing was happening against the Muslims, the Muslims would be screaming Islamophobia,” he said. “Sometimes Christians take too many punches for too long.” He also warned against the dangers of censorship: “If you have a society of censorship, maybe people won’t be offended but also people won’t find the truth.”
Rushmoor Council has requested to adjourn the hearing to allow further consultation with faith and community leaders.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
