On September 10, pastors and faith leaders from the United States, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, and Liberia convened for a two-part international event titled "Human Rights, Religious Freedom and the Essence of Faith." The first part was broadcast internationally from New York, while the second part, the "1st Word Exchange — Assembly of New York Pastors," took place in person. The event underscored a shared responsibility among people of faith to protect religious freedom and human dignity, and to build unity through dialogue.
The gathering addressed concerns over religious freedom and the detention of 95-year-old Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman Lee Man-hee, who has been held in a South Korean detention center for about 70 days despite his advanced age and health issues. Pastor Marc Thompson of Unity Baptist Church of Mattituck, New York, appealed directly to the conscience of the church, saying, "Would the real church please stand up—for justice, human rights and religious freedom. Enough is enough. Let Chairman Lee go." From Chicago, Pastor Lucilla Richards Seaton of Power, Prayer and Praise Ministries warned that the issue extends beyond one religious community, expressing concern that religious rights are being threatened globally.
Other pastors based in New York also spoke about the importance of unity. Rev. Hallie Foard of Allen AME Cathedral reflected on the strength that emerges when believers across nations stand together, emphasizing that love for God can unite people despite differences in background. Bishop John Montalvo of ELIM House of Worship described the gathering as impactful because people of different nationalities, languages, and backgrounds came together in fellowship. He stressed love, respect, understanding, and dialogue rather than attacking those with different beliefs. These reflections raise a fundamental question: If religious freedom is guaranteed only for those with whom we agree, is it truly religious freedom? The gathering called on churches to recognize that protecting human dignity and religious liberty is not the responsibility of one denomination, one nation, or one religious community, but requires all people of faith to stand together.
The second half of the event focused on turning advocacy into action. Faith leaders from various denominations gathered under the vision of the Beautiful Bridge Project to share their beliefs, listen to one another, fellowship, and seek greater understanding of the Bible. The purpose was not to ignore doctrinal differences but to create a space where those differences would not prevent pastors from sitting together, listening sincerely, and allowing the Word of God to become a bridge. Apostle Ralph Pritchard expressed that believers must move beyond traditions and divisions that hinder God's work, emphasizing listening rather than condemning and appreciating the Word Exchange as a place for open discussion and fellowship without judgment. Pastor Tyrone Freeman of Hope International Church expressed gratitude for the unity he experienced and his desire to participate in the next Word Exchange. For more information, visit 24-7PressRelease.
