“We applauded the liberty we have, while seeking to draw attention to liberties we are losing in this nation, and in the state.” Pastor Jerry Laudermilk, of Abundant Life Tabernacle in Ontario
Area pastors from Mansfield, Ontario, Bellville and Shelby met with Richland County Commissioners on January 16, 2014, National Religious Freedom Day, to encourage local officials to continue to guard our precious freedoms.
The local pastors discussed the resources the local churches pour into the community. The group pointed out that of the 20 local food banks, 17 of those are church-based. Bellville First Baptist Church, led by Pastor Bill Henderson, serves monthly meals to about 90 individuals a month. The “Light our City” saw 23 local churches collaborate to serve the community at Richland County Pregnancy Services and the Harmony House. “All of the events that day were possible because of religious freedom…We appreciate that freedom; we treasure it. We believe that our churches and even our community are far better because we have that liberty here,” said Laudermilk. Additionally, The Living Bible Museum attracts approximately 50,000 tourists a year to this area. Berean Baptist supports missionaries in 11 different nations. The group pointed out, that none of this could happen without religious freedom.
Commissioner Ed Olson read the following proclamation to those in attendance:
“The Richland County Board of Commissioners hereby reaffirm our common humanity and respect for all people with whom we share a brief moment on this earth by declaring Jan. 16, 2014 as Religious Freedom Day in Richland County and call upon all citizens to reflect on the great blessings of our religious freedom and practice religious tolerance among all who make up the diversity of Richland County’s population, not only on Religious Freedom Day, but throughout the year.”