Pastors from around country come to Houston to support local churches

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Pastors from across the country are in Houston, supporting local pastors and what they say is an attack on their First Amendment rights.

The City of Houston subpoenaed several pastors' sermons. The concern was that leaders used those sermons to influence their congregations to sign a petition against the city and its new equal rights ordinance. Mayor Annise Parker admitted the initial subpoena was too broad, when it asked for all the sermons that pastors gave. So, it was later changed to focus solely on the petition.

But during a news conference, local pastors and members of the Coalition of African American Pastors and Others said that what they say in a sermon is their freedom of speech and should not be attacked or violated.

Reverend William Owens, President of the Coalition African American Pastors says, "This is a country based on laws. No one can dictate to America what you have to do. You can't silence us because we won't stand for it."

Those at the news conference said they will do what they have to, even file a lawsuit if necessary, to maintain their freedom.