The St. Landry Parish Council convened on January 2, 2025, to address pressing community issues, with a significant focus on the recent controversial sale of church property and the subsequent treatment of its congregation.

During the meeting, community members voiced their concerns regarding the actions of Parish President Jesse Bellard, who has been accused of intimidation and harassment towards the Opelousas Life Church. Attorney Edward Gilliam, representing the church, recounted a troubling incident where law enforcement allegedly entered the church with firearms, forcing congregants to leave during a worship service. This incident has raised alarms about the treatment of worshippers and the appropriateness of armed presence in places of worship.

Angela Angelo, an associate pastor and real estate broker, detailed the church's struggles following the sale of their property, which was finalized on December 23, 2024. She claimed that despite having a signed agreement allowing 30 days to vacate, the church was pressured to leave immediately, contradicting prior assurances from Bellard. Angelo emphasized the emotional toll this situation has taken on the congregation, who were left feeling vulnerable and disrespected.

Pastor Kearny Thomas also spoke passionately about the injustices faced by the church, describing Bellard's actions as coercive and threatening. He highlighted that the church's vision to create a space for worship has been undermined by what he termed "gross injustice" and called for accountability from the council regarding Bellard's conduct.

The discussions at the council meeting underscore a growing tension between local government actions and community rights, particularly in matters of faith and property. As the council moves forward, the implications of these events may shape future interactions between parish officials and the community, emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue and fair treatment in all transactions. The council's response to these allegations will be crucial in restoring trust and ensuring that such incidents do not recur.