Grace Brethren pastor, Mark Abel, is quoted in a story on ABC-6 WSYX about a effort in Ohio to pass a bill designed to protect pastors. Abel is pastor of Southview Grace Brethren Church in Ashland, Ohio. A portion of the story appears below. Click here to read the complete article and view the story as broadcast.

Bill aims to protect pastors from lawsuits

COLUMBUS — Republican lawmakers in the Statehouse pushed a bill Wednesday they claim would protect pastors.

They said they’re afraid pastors will get sued if they refuse to marry a same sex couple.

The sponsor of the bill, Rep. Nino Vitale (R-Urbana), said there hasn’t been a single lawsuit like that filed in Ohio since same sex marriage became legal nearly a year ago.

“There is real fear among the clergy as to what is the unknown in this new legal environment and after the Supreme Court’s decision,” said Pastor Chris Long.

Supporters said the bill is proactive and protects their religious liberty.

“Our religious liberties are in jeopardy in America,” said Pastor Mark Abel from Southview Grace Brethren Church in Ashland. “It’s time that we stand up and say, ‘Hey we’re not trying to be very aggressive. We’re trying to protect the freedoms that we have.'”

Click here to read the complete article and view the story as broadcast.