Cedar Park Assembly of God just outside of Seattle, Washington is well-known for its pro-life commitment. Led by Pastor Jay Smith and his wife, Sandy, Cedar Park’s ministries include partnering with local pregnancy centers and foster care providers, hosting an annual camp for children in foster care, and hosting an annual prayer service to pray for couples struggling with infertility. Cedar Park also includes its beliefs about the sanctity of life in its bylaws and employee handbook.
But a law passed in 2018 by the Washington State Senate, SB 6219, threatens to undermine the church’s pro-life culture. This bill requires all insurance plans that include maternity care to also cover elective abortions. There is no negotiation; either the insurance plan covers abortions, or those who fail to comply will face a steep punishment, including a hefty fine or jail time.
As a result, Cedar Park decided to take a stand. Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys are representing this church in court as they challenge Washington’s law. This law violates the Free Exercise Clause by targeting the religious practices of churches, as they should be free to operate according to their convictions without being threatened by the government.
Here is how you can pray for Cedar Park’s Case:
Judicial
Pray that the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will rule that Cedar Park Church is free to operate according to its faith without being threatened with government punishment.
Legislative
Pray that God will raise up faithful Christians to run for office in the Washington State Legislature.
Cultural
Pray that the persecution of Cedar Park because of its participation in God’s redemptive story for mothers and babies spreads to audiences nationwide. Pray that this religious targeting will turn out for the furtherance of the gospel. (Philippians 1:12)
Church
Pray that the Church is inspired to imitate Cedar Park’s pro-life ministry.
What is a Generational Win?
Each generation has the responsibility to protect the freedoms of the next. That is why ADF focuses on generational wins. These victories change the law and culture of the nation and are sustained by deliberate action so that the victory endures for future generations.
- Life is safeguarded
- Religious Freedom prevails
- All can Speak Freely
- Marriage and Family are protected
- Parental Rights are guaranteed
Baptist Resource Network of Pennsylvania/South Jersey has teamed up with ADF Church Alliance so your church can become a member at a discounted rate. Visit www.adfchurchalliance.org/BRN to learn more and use promo code BRN250 when you apply.
