How does First Harvest Ministries’ interpretation of the FACE Act provide legal protection for churches?

First Harvest Ministries highlights that the FACE Act (Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act) does not only apply to abortion facilities. It also covers places of religious worship, including churches.

Under this interpretation, the Act makes it a federal offense to:

• Use or threaten force
• Physically obstruct
• Intimidate or interfere with people entering, leaving, or using a church

Because churches are explicitly included, congregations can appeal to federal law enforcement and federal courts when facing serious threats, blockades, or intimidation that hinder worship or ministry activities.

Is there a specific situation you are wondering whether the FACE Act would cover?