The Rev. Patrick L. Wooden, Sr. issued a fiery warning to anti-ICE agitators from his pulpit this week. He made it clear that his congregation will not tolerate the lawless disruptions seen at other houses of worship. Wooden’s comments follow a recent incident where radical activists stormed a Minnesota church service to berate congregants and police.
The pastor specifically called out former CNN host Don Lemon for his role in streaming footage of the Minneapolis church invasion. Wooden warned Lemon and other protesters to keep their “resistance” far away from his sanctuary. “You roll up in this church doing stuff like that, and it’s going to be the royal rumble,” the pastor declared to his cheering congregation.
🚨Bishop Patrick L. Wooden has sent a clear message to Don Lemon and other protestors:
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) January 27, 2026
"I just want to say to protestors and all of them, don't do that here. Amen, Don Lemon don't come here." pic.twitter.com/m1TkNnSp3C
Wooden emphasized that the church was built through the blood, sweat, and tears of his members. He expressed outrage at the idea of outsiders scaring children and shouting obscenities in a place dedicated to the Lord. “That’s not going to stand in this church,” Wooden reiterated, promising immediate consequences for any would-be disruptors.
Attorney General Pam Bondi recently announced the arrest of William Kelly, a key agitator involved in the Minnesota disruption. Kelly was seen in federal custody wearing a vulgar anti-Trump beanie after allegedly berating officers as “traitors.” Bondi characterized the protest as a direct assault on the religious freedom of the faithful.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that Kelly has been charged with conspiracy and violations of the FACE Act. This federal law specifically protects houses of worship from obstruction and harassment by political activists. The Trump administration has signaled that it will use every tool available to protect religious institutions from radical mobs.
Pastor Wooden’s stance highlights the growing frustration among believers who feel their sacred spaces are under attack by the Left. He remains unapologetic about his commitment to protecting his flock and the sanctity of worship. For Wooden, the line is drawn: political theater has no place in the house of God.