In today’s culture, it is not a question of if churches will be threatened or sued for standing true to God’s Word – the question is when and where such cases will arise. Laws are changing and churches across the country are facing threats to their religious freedom. Your church needs to be prepared.

How is your church preparing to handle sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) issues?
SOGI issues can arise from employees, volunteers, youth groups, use of your facilities, and more. Your church needs to be equipped to handle potential issues and be aware of changing laws, so you know how to respond. You also need access to trusted legal counsel when questions arise.

Are your church’s governing documents written in a way that provides legal protection for your church?
Your bylaws, policies, and other governing documents can help protect the religious freedom of your church. These documents can serve as evidence of your church’s beliefs, so it is imperative that they clearly communicate what your church believes to your congregation, community, and, if necessary, the courts.

How would your church address religious freedom legal challenges?
Opponents have treated churches unfairly by denying churches equal access to government grants or property, manipulating zoning codes to prevent churches from using their own buildings, forcing churches to comply with unconstitutional regulations that violate their beliefs, and more. Your church needs to know its rights and have a legal advocate who can help whenever you need it.

Baptist State Convention of North Carolina has partnered with ADF Church Alliance to prepare and protect your church – for these issues and other religious liberty challenges.
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ADF Church Alliance is a membership program that provides legal help so you can freely preach and operate your church in accordance with Christian principles. The program acts as a hub for churches to gain access to experienced First Amendment lawyers who are available to answer religious liberty questions, conduct document reviews and provide advice, and even represent your church in court if necessary and appropriate – it’s virtually all-inclusive for religious freedom issues.  

Through this membership program, you can protect religious freedom for your church and for your congregants - without carrying the legal burden alone.