“Retired pastor Clive Johnston, 77, appeared in court in Northern Ireland after being charged for preaching John 3:16 near a hospital located within an abortion “safe access” zone.
He pleaded not guilty, stating that he made no reference to abortion and displayed no signs or placards—only delivering a brief open-air Gospel message.
Authorities allege that his actions could have influenced individuals accessing abortion services. The judge has postponed a decision, with another hearing scheduled for March. If found guilty, Johnston could face fines and a criminal record.
The Christian Institute, which is backing his case, argues the issue extends beyond abortion legislation. Director Ciarán Kelly described buffer zone laws as unjust and warned against their use to restrict expressions of faith.
Supporters have also raised broader concerns about freedom of expression, questioning where limits on public preaching might extend if such actions are penalized.”
