Christian leaders urge the protection of worshippers’ rights after protesters interrupt service

Associated Press (AP)EN 7 min read 100% complete by By GIOVANNA DELL’ORTOJanuary 19, 2026 at 09:23 PM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Christian leaders are advocating for the protection of worshippers' rights after a group of protesters disrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota. The incident occurred at Cities Church, a Southern Baptist church, during a Sunday service. Approximately three dozen protesters entered the church, chanting slogans like "ICE out" and referencing a woman fatally shot by an ICE officer. The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the disruption, which targeted the church due to one of its pastors being an official with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The protesters were demonstrating against immigration enforcement policies.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Target ×230% Southern Baptist 40% Minneapolis 40% Renee Good 50% St. Paul ×360% Cities Church 60% Minnesota ×370% U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ×380% U.S. Department of Justice ×280%

Keywords

protesters interrupt service 90% worshippers' rights 90% ice 70% immigration and customs enforcement 70% church 60% anti-immigration enforcement 60% religious freedom 50% protest 50%