All too often people who love animals are prosecuted for violating municipal codes by feeding and/or taking in feral cats, birds, squirrels, etc.. Many people are compelled by their faith and religious beliefs to help animals who are in distress or in danger of winterkill or starvation. While it may violate city codes to feed stray cats or birds, the truth is that many persons are compelled by the commandments of God which are written upon their hearts. The Judeo/Christian Scriptures teach us that all of creation are endowed with living souls. We are commanded to help those in need and to protect them from physical and emotional pain.
It is unjust to deny us the freedom to express our beliefs by showing mercy and compassion. We may be fined for feeding birds or stray cats in particular, while it is often allowed to purchase an animal or chicken, transport it to our home, and slaughter it for consumption. Animals who are slaughtered by being bound with ropes and having their throats cut are not protected by anti-cruelty laws.
It is unethical, unjust, and immoral to condemn people who seek to preserve life and alleviate suffering due to their religious convictions who are emulating God and following in the footseps of Noah, while allowing others to cause suffering and take life without legal consequences.
We seek our Freedom of Religion and the right to express it by showing mercy and compassion.
