Key Takeaways:
- A Colorado church, The Rock, won a legal battle to continue operating a homeless shelter on its property.
- The town of Castle Rock initially tried to stop the church but backed down after a court ruling.
- The town agreed to pay $225,000 in legal fees and allowed the church to continue its shelter ministry.
- The church can now run its shelter, host emergency services with the Red Cross, and even open a coffee shop to help those in need.
- The settlement highlights the importance of religious freedom and community service.
A Victory for Religious Freedom and Compassion
In a major win for religious freedom, a church in Castle Rock, Colorado, has successfully fought off a legal challenge from the town that tried to shut down its homeless shelter. The Rock Church, known for its outreach programs, operates a temporary shelter on its property to help those in need. When the town tried to stop them, the church took the fight to court—and won.
The church’s victory not only allows them to continue their shelter ministry but also sets a positive precedent for religious organizations nationwide. In a joint statement, both the church and the town expressed their commitment to working together to support the community.
What Happened?
The Rock Church had been using trailers on its property to provide temporary shelter for homeless individuals. The town of Castle Rock initially claimed this violated local zoning laws and tried to stop the church. However, after a federal court stepped in, the town backed down.
In May 2024, the church filed a lawsuit against the town, arguing that the town’s actions violated their religious freedom under the First Amendment and the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA). A federal judge agreed, issuing an injunction that prevented the town from interfering with the shelter.
The Settlement
After the court ruled in favor of the church, the town agreed to settle the case. As part of the agreement:
- The church can continue operating its temporary shelter ministry on its property.
- The town will allow the church to partner with the Red Cross to provide emergency shelters during crises.
- The church can even open a coffee shop to support its mission, charging only what people can afford or asking for voluntary donations.
In addition to letting the church continue its services, the town agreed to pay $225,000 toward the church’s legal fees.
A Win for Everyone
The settlement is being celebrated as a win-win for both the church and the town. The church can continue its vital work helping the homeless, while the town avoids further legal battles and strengthens its relationship with the community.
Jeremy Dys, a lawyer for First Liberty Institute, which represented the church, called the outcome a “welcome resolution” that encourages churches to keep serving those in need. He also praised the cooperation between the church and the town, saying it’s an example other communities should follow.
Pastor Mike Polhemus of The Rock Church expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue the church’s mission. “We love Castle Rock,” he said, “and are committed to working with the town to provide assistance to those in need, helping to reduce homelessness in our community.”
Why This Matters
This case is important because it highlights the balance between religious freedom and local regulations. The court made it clear that churches have the right to serve their communities, even if it means bending zoning laws. The judge in the case pointed out that the town failed to show any real safety concerns about the shelter and that the church took steps to ensure it operated responsibly, like background checks and rule agreements for those using the shelter.
The ruling also underscores the role of RLUIPA, a federal law passed in 2000 to protect religious organizations from unfair zoning rules that interfere with their mission. The law ensures that churches and other religious groups can continue their vital work without being unfairly targeted by local governments.
Looking Ahead
With the legal battle behind them, The Rock Church is now focused on expanding its services. The settlement allows the church to install additional shelters if needed and work closely with the Red Cross during emergencies. The town has also offered to help by installing fencing or landscaping to make the shelter area blend in better with the neighborhood.
This cooperation is a great example of how communities and religious organizations can work together to address tough issues like homelessness. By supporting shelters and outreach programs, everyone can play a role in helping those in need.
A Message of Hope
The Rock Church’s story is a reminder that even in the face of challenges, compassion and determination can lead to positive change. By standing up for their beliefs and their community, the church proved that serving others is not just a religious duty—it’s a vital part of building a stronger, more caring society.
As Pastor Polhemus said, “We are pleased that we can continue our church’s mission to transform society by loving others as Christ loved us.” With this victory, The Rock Church can keep shining as a beacon of hope for those in need.