Mass religious gathering at Sundial Bridge draws criticism and concern

REDDING, Calif. — A massive gathering at the Sundial Bridge Wednesday night has drawn criticism from public officials and was not approved by the City of Redding, according to city officials. The event was hosted by Sean Feucht, a minister and musician who encouraged people to attend and wear face masks.

However, video and images of the event posted by Feucht and others show large crowds without masks and without social distancing measures. County health officials said the gathering violated the state order and put the community at risk.

County health officials say they were never contacted by Feucht or other organizers but heard about the event and sent them guidance about social distancing and requirements for outdoor services. County officials also said that Turtle Bay and the City of Redding had contacted organizers about the event and were told that the event would involve social distancing and a “small battery-powered amplification for acoustic guitar and mic.”

Feucht is the leader in the organization "Hold the Line," a political organization combining a religious message with an effort to register voters. Feucht ran for Congress in California's District 2 in 2020 but lost in the Republican primary.

Many of those who attended the event were members of Bethel Church in Redding but the church says they were not involved in the organization of the event. The City of Redding also denied that officials had approved of the event in a statement released Thursday. According to city officials, "Citizens have the right to peacefully assemble without prior approval. A permit is required only when the organizer is requesting special services or dispensations."

City Council Member Julie Winter posted to Facebook, saying she had not approved of the event.

KRCR has reached out to Hold the Line and we are awaiting a response.