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Pray for Justice and Healing: Pastor Rick Miller and Deacon Daniel Pate's Stand Against Unlawful Sherriff

Stephen Di ·

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Pray for Justice and Healing: Pastor Rick Miller and Deacon Daniel Pate's Stand Against Unlawful Authority

Summary: Pastor Rick Miller and Deacon Daniel Pate of Old Horseshoe Freewill Baptist Church in Elizabethton, Tennessee, have filed a lawsuit against the Carter County Sheriff's Office. The lawsuit alleges that in September 2024, Sheriff Mike Fraley and several deputies arrived at the church armed and in uniform, without a warrant, attempting to force a vote to oust the pastor and deacon. This action was reportedly taken at the behest of former church members who had resigned after the previous pastor left. The deputies' presence during a prayer service and their attempt to interfere in church governance have raised serious concerns about the separation of church and state.

Background — Who Are Pastor Rick Miller and Deacon Daniel Pate?

Pastor Rick Miller has been serving in ministry for over 35 years, with a strong heart for hospitality and ministering to Jesus by faithfully caring for those around him. He and his wife, Mercedes, planted Calvary Chapel Grapevine in 2004. Deacon Daniel Pate is a dedicated member of the church, known for his commitment to the congregation and his role in church leadership. Both individuals have been actively involved in the spiritual guidance and growth of their community. Their leadership was called into question following the resignation of the former pastor, leading to the current legal dispute. 

Recent Developments & Timeline

  • September 2024: Sheriff Mike Fraley and several deputies arrived at Old Horseshoe Freewill Baptist Church armed and in uniform, without a warrant, attempting to force a vote to oust Pastor Rick Miller and Deacon Daniel Pate. 
  • September 2025: Pastor Miller and Deacon Pate filed a lawsuit against the Carter County Sheriff's Office in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, seeking $3 million in damages. 

Why Epifia and Christians Should Pray — Pastoral and Scriptural Reasons

As believers, we are called to pray for justice, for those in authority, and for the well-being of all individuals involved in this situation. The actions of the sheriff and deputies, if proven true, represent a serious overreach of governmental authority into the affairs of the church. This incident underscores the importance of safeguarding religious freedoms and ensuring that the church remains free from undue interference. Scripture teaches us to seek justice and to pray for those who govern, that they may act with wisdom and integrity. (1 Timothy 2:1–2; Micah 6:8)

 

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  1. Stephen Di
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    Our Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts burdened for the events that have transpired in Elizabethton, Tennessee. We lift up Pastor Rick Miller and Deacon Daniel Pate, asking that You grant them peace and strength as they navigate this challenging situation. May they feel Your presence and guidance in every step they take.

    Lord, we also pray for Sheriff Mike Fraley and the deputies involved. We ask that You convict their hearts if they have acted unjustly and lead them to repentance. May they seek Your forgiveness and strive to uphold the principles of justice and righteousness in their roles.

    We pray for the members of Old Horseshoe Freewill Baptist Church, that they may remain united in faith and trust in Your sovereignty. Protect them from division and help them to continue to be a light in their community.

    Finally, we pray for our nation, that religious freedoms may be preserved and that all individuals may worship You without fear of persecution. May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

    “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8

    Amen.

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