by Jorge Gomez • 2 minutes
Good news for our client, Lee & Walnut Church of Christ, a small church in Sapulpa, Oklahoma.
We’re happy to announce that the Sapulpa City Council recently voted 5-4 to grant a special use permit that will allow the church to use its facilities for religious services.
This summer, the church began the process of acquiring a vacant building to serve as a new home for its growing congregation. The church received unanimous approval by the Sapulpa Planning Commission in August. With assurance from the Planning Board that there would be no obstacles, the church proceeded with the purchase of the property.
It was only after closing on the property that the city council voiced objection and rejected the church’s application.
First Liberty sent the city a letter explaining that it was violating the church’s rights under the First Amendment, as well as federal and state law. On the same day it received our letter, the city council reconvened and responded favorably, approving the church’s permit.
“The Lee & Walnut Church of Christ simply wants to be able to use its property as always planned: as a church,” said Ryan Gardner, Senior Counsel for First Liberty. “We are grateful for the five council members who upheld the Church’s religious liberty by approving its permit.”
The church currently meets at a senior citizens center in town. Now, members can look forward to having a place to call home, where they can meet to pray, worship and hear God’s Word.
The church will also be able to fulfill its mission to spread the Gospel throughout Sapulpa, and have the freedom to better serve and care for its community. One of its ministries is an emergency food pantry.
Thank you for supporting First Liberty. This win would not have been possible without your support.
Your gifts to First Liberty will make an enormous difference and impact for everyone at Lee & Walnut Church. It’s a victory for one congregation—but one that will touch the lives of so many people inside and outside the walls of the church.
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