Pastor Criminally Charged Amid Attempts to Help Homeless Refuses to Back Down

A Christian pastor is reportedly facing criminal charges for violating zoning laws and housing the homeless. Pastor Chris Avell of Dad's Place, a church in Bryan, Ohio, and First Liberty attorney Ryan Gardner join the "Newsmakers Podcast" to discuss the shocking case. "[Avell's] facing 18 criminal charges for violating the city’s zoning laws," a First Liberty news release reads. "The city is going after him because earlier this year Pastor Chris opened the church 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. He’s seeking to serve homeless people." The statement continued, "In November 2023, the city sent a letter ordering the church to stop allowing overnight guests or face criminal prosecution. This past Sunday—on New Year’s Eve—police showed up at the church. They handed the Pastor a packet of multiple charges and violations." Listen to Avell and Gardner give the back story and explain why they believe the case is unfolding. -- Welcome to "The Newsmakers Podcast," a show where we go behind the headlines each day to bring you interviews with pastors, entertainers, politicians, and other notable figures. Based on the "Newsmakers" show on the CBN News Channel, this daily podcast featuring CBN's Billy Hallowell provides full interviews with one newsworthy person every weekday.