Court ruling shuts down 24/7 church shelter in Bryan, Ohio, leaving homeless individuals vulnerable to freezing temperatures as Pastor Chris faces criminal charges for offering refuge.
In a decision that has sparked outrage among community advocates and faith groups, an Ohio judge has ruled against Pastor Chris Avell and Dad’s Place, a small but vital church in Bryan that has provided 24/7 shelter for the homeless. The ruling mandates the immediate closure of the church’s ministry, leaving dozens of homeless individuals without refuge as temperatures in the region plummet below freezing.
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For years, Dad’s Place has served as a beacon of hope for the most vulnerable in the Bryan community, opening its doors to anyone in need. The court’s decision effectively forces those relying on the church’s warmth and safety onto the streets, where nighttime temperatures have dropped to a bone-chilling 19 degrees.
“This ruling disregards both the U.S. and Ohio Constitutions,” said Jeremy Dys, Senior Counsel for First Liberty, which is representing Pastor Chris. “It also ignores the preferential treatment given to hotels, apartments, and senior living facilities in Bryan, while discriminating against Dad’s Place simply because it is a church. That is blatant religious discrimination.”
A Troubling Trial
Earlier this week, Pastor Chris faced criminal felony charges for what his supporters call an act of compassion: keeping the church open to provide shelter and ministry. First Liberty attorneys braved snow and freezing temperatures to represent the pastor in court. The criminal trial has drawn national attention, with critics calling the city’s actions a targeted attack on religious freedom. The charge? “First-degree misdemeanor fire code violation.”
City officials, including Mayor Carrie Schlade and Fire Chief Bruce Pool, have expressed safety concerns about the building’s capacity to house individuals. Yet during testimony, the fire chief admitted that no other facility within a 72-square-mile radius could replicate the services provided by Dad’s Place. Despite the ruling, the city has failed to present an alternative plan for the displaced individuals.
A Lifeline Lost
“Houses of worship like Dad’s Place do more than provide temporary shelter—they save lives,” Dys emphasized. “Forcing people into the snowy sidewalks instead of allowing this church to continue its ministry is unconscionable.”
Advocates argue the closure undermines the role of faith-based organizations in addressing societal challenges. Dad’s Place has long been a critical resource for those overlooked by traditional social services, offering shelter, food, and spiritual care.
Next Steps
First Liberty has vowed to continue the legal battle on appeal, determined to protect Pastor Chris and the ministry of Dad’s Place. In the meantime, community members and faith groups are calling on city officials to address the immediate crisis created by the ruling.
“The hostility shown by Bryan officials toward this church is both appalling and illegal,” Dys added. “We will not rest until Pastor Chris is free to continue his vital ministry without fear of harassment or imprisonment.”
With temperatures set to remain dangerously low, the fate of those who relied on Dad’s Place hangs in the balance. For now, the church and its supporters are calling for urgent assistance and prayers as they work to challenge the decision and are continuing to provide help while they appeal the decision of the court. Why? Pastor Chris shared it’s because it’s what God has called him to do and no government can interfere with the free exercise of his faith.
Pastor Chris Avell is being harassed by the city of Bryan for keeping his doors open to those in need. This is why he does it.
To learn more about how you can support ministries like Dad’s Place, go to https://t.co/u3gqP2QISg pic.twitter.com/xEWEjnOJp8
— First Liberty Institute (@1stLiberty) December 18, 2024
