Dear John,

I have a critical case update for you concerning Pastor Chris Avell.

But first, I want to thank you for your continued prayers and support. Throughout 2025, you have been the catalyst for securing the future of religious freedom.

There are just a few days left this year for you to help position First Liberty for an even bigger 2026.

And thanks to a generous $500,000 Matching Grant, your gift’s impact will be DOUBLED.

Become a Force for Religious Freedom
You Can Make the Difference in the Fight for Faith

Winters in Bryan, Ohio are brutal.

To help those in need of a refuge from the subzero temperatures, bone-chilling winds and snow, Pastor Chris Avell keeps his church Dad’s Place open 24 hours a day 7 days a week as a temporary shelter.

And in return for serving those in need, Pastor Chris has been under constant attack and even criminally convicted.

Mayor Carrie Schlade and the government officials of Bryan have literally criminalized his compassion.

This month, Pastor Chris won a huge victory at the Ohio Court of Appeals, and I’ve asked our lead attorney Jeremy Dys to share the latest update on this incredible news.

Thanks to God’s grace and your support, Dad’s Place will remain open for those seeking refuge from the freezing streets of Bryan.

Unfortunately, this crucial victory doesn’t bring Pastor Chris’ plight to an end.

There’s still much work to do.

Bryan’s city leaders are showing no signs of ending their attacks on this pastor, this church, or their community’s most vulnerable.

But because you fight for faith with us, we can continue to provide Pastor Chris with the best possible defense. And we can do it without ever sending him a bill.

That means that no matter how long it takes and how much it costs, he won’t ever pay a dime for our services.

That’s only possible with your support.

End Religious Discrimination by Standing for Your First Liberty

With 2025 quickly coming to an end, you have a unique opportunity to stand with Pastor Chris Avell and deliver a message of hope and faith.

Right now, you can make your gift go farther than ever before.

By giving before MIDNIGHT on December 31st, you can double the impact of your gift. Every dollar you give will be matched thanks to our $500,000 Matching Grant.

Your gift will protect religious freedom from faith-based attacks and secure the blessing of liberty for generations to come.

Join us on the frontlines in the fight for faith and help put an end to this religious discrimination.

You can make all the difference for Pastor Chris Avell and those being served by Dad’s Place.

Yes, I’ll make a gift today! »

Grateful for you, 

Kelly

Kelly Shackelford
President, CEO & Chief Counsel
First Liberty Institute