11:04 p.m.
A rally to protest the ACLU in Pittsylvania County attracted hundreds of supporters.
As we've reported, the ACLU sent a letter to Pittsylvania County Supervisors, saying sectarian prayers by a government body violates the first amendment.
The organization wants county supervisors to stop having Christian prayers before meetings.
In response, community members held a rally this afternoon. Pastor Doug Barber organized the rally with his brother.
He has also started a petition. So far, there are more than 1,600 signatures.
He says the rally is not only about religion, but also about their rights.
"This is America. That's what makes America great. We can stand up for our religious liberty for any religion," said Barber.
During the rally, supervisors held a meeting and started with a Christian prayer.
They also adopted a policy which says they do not endorse one religion over another and they respect all faiths.
Chairman Tim Barber says each member who leads prayer before a meeting does it based on his religious beliefs.
Barber says they will not stop praying before meetings.
He also says he plans to meet with Senator Mark Warner and Congressman Robert Hurt later this month, in hopes of getting their support.
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7:54 p.m.
From Ashley Roberts, in the field
An estimated more than 200 people showed up tonight to rally in suport of a prayer said before each Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors meeting.
The rally took place before the Board's 7 p.m. regular session, and during a closed session when Board members were expected to discuss legal options, should the ACLU sue.
I'll have an update on WSLS at 11 p.m.
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