Lengthy shutdowns have reshaped the church and led to escalating tensions, with pastors and religious-liberty advocates pitted against politicians and public health officials. Some church leaders were fined, arrested, and even imprisoned for disobeying local restrictions, often saying they were obeying a higher authority. Pastors protested that churches are essential, and political leaders said not even a national emergency can negate Americans’ religious liberties. Worship leader Sean Feucht garnered attention for conducting an outdoor “protest” tour that some people feared spread germs.
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