Associated Press - Virginia Megachurch Sues Fairfax County, VA to Keep Classes

May 23, 2011

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July 18, 2006
by Associated Press

McLEAN, Va. (AP) A megachurch in northern Virginia is suing Fairfax County so that it can keep giving religion classes that help students get a master's degree.

County officials say McLean Bible Church a ten-thousand member church in Tysons Corner is violating zoning rules by teaching classes that help students work toward a master's degree in theology and divinity.

However, the church argues that the classes are a normal part of church life and that it isn't required to get the county's permission to operate as a college because the church is protected under freedom of religion.

Fairfax County spokeswoman Debra Bianchi says the county plans to file a written response to the suit within 60 days.