I’m back in the pulpit this Sunday, August 31, at First Congregational Church of Woodbury, preaching “Know Your Place: Lessons in Etiquette from Proverbs and Jesus” (Proper 17, Year C, Track 2). The sermon tackles today’s shooting in Minneapolis as a symptom of our culture’s rebellion against God’s order, calling us to humility and biblical fidelity. But today, I’m compelled to share a personal challenge that underscores why this message matters: an attempt to silence my voice through state pressure. Below, I reflect on this incident, share insights from recent radio appearances, and invite you to join us in worship. Let’s stand firm in faith together.
Facing Intimidation: A State Police Inquiry
On July 14, I posted on X, urging Attorney General William Tong to investigate serious allegations from a Project Veritas video about a Hartford church’s actions toward minors, including a mother’s claim linking her daughter’s suicide to a pastor’s influence.
My post used “Silence=Death,” a phrase from human rights advocacy, to highlight perceived inaction. Shockingly, AG Tong responded by sending a state police detective to question my intent. Though the matter closed with no charges, the experience was chilling—reminiscent of speech policing in places like the UK. This isn’t just about me; it’s a wake-up call for all believers to speak truth boldly, no matter the cost.
I followed up on X about why the tweet prompted the police call: View the post here.
Read more: AG Tong had state police question pastor over social media post.
Radio Reflections: Amplifying the Call
This incident sparked bold conversations on two radio shows, reinforcing our mission to revive historic churches and hold leaders accountable. Here’s a quick dive into each.
Reese on the Radio: A Fiery Stand for Truth (August 6, 2025)
On WTIC News Talk 1080, host Reese tore into AG Tong’s actions, calling them cowardly and politically driven. He praised my stand as “right over the target,” urging believers to join the fight against intimidation.
Key Moments (Full Episode):
[1:31:04] Reese reads my letter to the state police.
[1:32:05] Slams Tong’s hypocrisy in ignoring “Silence=Death” while championing similar causes.
[1:37:32] Calls for a coalition: “Do not let that man fight by himself.”
[1:39:50] Labels Tong a “coward” for dodging direct dialogue.
WIHS 104.9: From Testimony to Bold Mission (August 13, 2025)
On Morning Cheer, I shared my journey from a latchkey kid to pastor, my vision for a Donor Intent Litigation Trust to reclaim church funds, and the police inquiry. I urged pastors to preach politically post-Johnson Amendment, applying the Gospel without fear.
Key Moments (Full Interview):
[1:47] My conversion at 14, rooted in Catholic and Presbyterian traditions.
[3:04] Donor Intent Litigation Trust: Using AI and wills to fund biblical ministries.
[11:20] The AG Tong incident: An attempt to bully me into silence.
[14:02] Exhorting pastors: “Be the bully in the pulpit” for the Gospel.
Join Us This Sunday
This Sunday, August 31, at 10 a.m., I’ll preach at First Congregational Church of Woodbury. Expect a bold challenging message on humility, God’s order, and the Minneapolis tragedy.
Visit us or follow along on Experimental Sermons Substack. Support my work: Subscribe here.
Church Announcements
Congregational Meeting: Sunday, September 7.
Wednesday Bible Study: Resumes September 10—Question 18 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism.
Family Institute of Connecticut Banquet: September 19—stand for family values.
Waterbury March for Jesus: October 4—march with us!