Keswick street preachers who face complaints of homophobia, harassment and bigotry claim they bring the town hope.
Dale McAlpine, a preacher from Grace Baptist Church in Workington, has been preaching in Keswick for at least 10 years and can regularly be found with a microphone outside the Moot Hall. He is often joined by pastor Angus Cameron of Cumnock Baptist Church in Ayrshire.
The pair’s views clearly buck the prevailing cultural trends. For instance, they take a hard stance against homosexuality and are at odds with the Keswick Convention due to its acceptance of female clergy.
Town and county councillor Tony Lywood was alerted to them by a number of constituents who claim the preachers’ comments on God, racial issues and homosexuality spoil the atmosphere in the town centre.
Councillor Lywood said: “I have no issues about anyone talking and putting forward their views as we live in a country of free speech.
“However, their language strays into homophobia and they will insist on picking on any individual that passes.
“I will be talking to the authorities about their harassing behaviour and there is already talk of a demonstration against these people among those offended.”
In response to criticism of homophobia, Mr McAlpine said: “We don’t hate anybody, in fact as Christians we love even our enemies.
“A phobia is a fear – we’re not terrified of them; we’re terrified for them. The Bible says that no sin shall enter God’s presence so we are looking out for their chance to go to heaven.”
Mr Cameron added: “Whenever someone is confronted with their own sin, they generally take offence. We are just preaching what the Bible says.”
Both preachers said they were open to discussions on any issue and if members of the public took offence with their preaching then they should approach them directly.
