The Star-Ledger reports:
Expected to resign Monday from his state Assembly seat amid a federal corruption sting, the Rev. Alfred E. Steele received an outpouring of support this morning from members of the Paterson church where he is pastor.Can you guess what political party Steele belongs to since the Star-Ledger forgets to tell you? You'll notice some Democrats don't care about the separation of church and state.You'll also notice some people who go to church haven't heard of "though shall not steal".
More than 150 people packed the Seminary Baptist Church to hear Steele's half-hour long sermon, part of a two-hour service. He was met with a standing ovation.
Steele, 53, has said he will step down from his position in the Assembly on Monday, after being charged Thursday along with 10 other public officials with accepting thousands of dollars in bribes.
While he never mentioned the charges against him, Steele today described the church as a sanctuary, where people can find rest.
"God's house is a place of comfort," he told worshippers.
Reporters approaching Steele after the service were were blocked by ushers.
Churchgoers staunchly defended their pastor, though few would give their names. One who did, Debbie Thomas, has been a parishioner for 45 years.
"We love him," she said, "and we are behind him."
The church plans to go ahead with a celebration marking Steele's 23rd anniversary as pastor, which takes place next week.
