On September 10, faith leaders from five regions convened for a two-part international event titled "Human Rights, Religious Freedom and the Essence of Faith," followed by the "1st Word Exchange — Assembly of New York Pastors." The gatherings, held both virtually and in person, brought together pastors from the United States, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, and Liberia to address a shared concern: the protection of religious freedom and human dignity, particularly in light of the ongoing detention of 95-year-old Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman Lee Man-hee in South Korea.
Chairman Lee has been held in a detention center for approximately 70 days despite his advanced age and reported health concerns. His case has galvanized pastors across denominational and national lines, who argue that the implications extend far beyond one religious community. Pastor Marc Thompson of Unity Baptist Church of Mattituck, New York, issued a direct appeal: "Would the real church please stand up—for justice, human rights and religious freedom. Enough is enough. Let Chairman Lee go."
The event's first part emphasized that religious freedom must be defended not only when one's own beliefs are at stake but also when people of different faiths face prejudice, discrimination, or injustice. Pastor Lucilla Richards Seaton of Power, Prayer and Praise Ministries in Chicago warned that religious rights are being threatened around the world, framing the issue as a universal concern rather than a single community's plight.
Other pastors underscored the importance of unity. Rev. Hallie Foard of Allen AME Cathedral reflected on the strength that emerges when believers across nations stand together, noting 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 emphasized love, respect, understanding, and dialogue rather than attacking those with differing beliefs.
The pastors' 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. It requires all people of faith to stand together.
The second half of the event focused on turning advocacy into action. Under the vision of the Beautiful Bridge Project, faith leaders from various denominations gathered to share their beliefs, listen to one another, and seek greater understanding of the Bible. The purpose was not to pretend that doctrinal differences do not exist, but to create a space where those differences would not prevent pastors from sitting together and allowing the Word of God to become a bridge.
Apostle Ralph Pritchard expressed that believers must move beyond traditions and divisions that hinder the work of God. He emphasized listening rather than condemning and appreciated the Word Exchange as a place where pastors could openly discuss scripture and fellowship without judgment. Pastor Tyrone Freeman of Hope International Church expressed gratitude for the unity he experienced and a desire to participate in the next Word Exchange.
The event's significance lies in its demonstration that religious freedom advocacy can transcend theological and national boundaries. By uniting pastors from five regions, the gathering signals a growing international movement to protect human rights and religious liberty, setting a precedent for interfaith cooperation. As Chairman Lee's detention continues, the pastors' collective voice amplifies pressure on authorities and raises awareness of the broader implications for religious freedom worldwide.
