Small NH Church Shutdown by Nanny State; Pam Bondi Steps In

In the quaint town of Weare, New Hampshire, with its nearly 9,000 residents, Howard Kaloogian has become quite the local figure. Owner of a five-acre property, Kaloogian has long used his red barn for various community events. This barn has seen everything from weddings and dances to political rallies, including one for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Recently, Kaloogian decided to transform the barn into a place of worship. He set up pews and a pulpit, and on Sundays, a small congregation of about 30 gathered for services. Despite his history of hosting larger, secular gatherings, the town suddenly objected to this new use.

The town’s zoning officer, Tony Sawyer, took personal issue with the church services. He informed Kaloogian that his residentially zoned barn couldn’t be used for religious assemblies without a conditional use permit. Sawyer believed the permit would likely be denied, effectively shutting down Kaloogian’s budding church.

In an August 2023 visit, Sawyer explained to Pastor Kaloogian that he needed to submit a form for a Planning Board meeting. Sawyer, an atheist with a pastor father, assured him that personal beliefs wouldn’t impact the situation. Kaloogian’s past events, including a meet-and-greet for Kennedy Jr., had never required such paperwork.

The 2019 zoning ordinance allowed churches in residential areas, which Kaloogian argued should protect his rights. He pointed to New Hampshire state law and the First Amendment, maintaining that no site plan was necessary for religious use. Despite these arguments, he faced mounting pressure from local officials.

Kaloogian attempted to upgrade his barn’s heating system, planning to install a new gas line. A local plumber’s permit request was stalled once officials realized the project’s location. This led to further scrutiny and a cease-and-desist letter from the town.

Kaloogian’s lawyer argued this was a clear breach of his First Amendment rights. Though the cease-and-desist was paused, the pastor encountered relentless bureaucracy. Inspections, fines, and threats became a regular part of his life.

In early 2024, the First Liberty Institute stepped in, filing a lawsuit on Kaloogian’s behalf. Attorney Jeremy Dys highlighted the absurdity of denying a small congregation the right to gather. He questioned why Weare officials targeted this church but allowed other home gatherings.

The town attempted to dismiss the lawsuit, claiming it wasn’t ready for court. However, the Department of Justice disagreed, supporting Kaloogian’s legal stance. They filed a statement of interest, asserting the church’s case deserved a federal hearing.

The DOJ’s involvement brought national attention to this small-town issue. Many saw it as a clear case of government overreach, emblematic of wider struggles faced by religious communities. The Trump administration, along with Assistant Attorney Harmeet Dhillon, backed Kaloogian, emphasizing their defense of religious freedoms.

This support from the federal government gave hope to many who felt their rights were under siege. It represented a broader fight for religious liberty, resonating with communities across the nation. The church in Weare became a symbol of resistance against perceived governmental intrusion.

Pastor Kaloogian’s battle is just one of many similar struggles faced by religious groups. It highlights the ongoing tension between local regulations and constitutional rights. As the case unfolds, it serves as a rallying point for those advocating for freedom of worship.

In a time when many feel their beliefs are under attack, stories like Kaloogian’s offer a glimmer of hope. They remind us of the importance of standing up for fundamental rights. The support from conservative leaders underscores a commitment to preserving these liberties.

The Weare case is a microcosm of broader national debates over religious freedom. It challenges us to consider the balance between local governance and individual rights. As this legal battle continues, it will likely set precedents for similar cases in the future.

For now, the small congregation in Weare presses on, buoyed by newfound national support. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. It serves as a reminder of the core values that unite many Americans.