An evangelist has claimed that he was kicked out of a gym for offering a prayer to another member in pain. Craig Fasler of Christian Equippers International reportedly prayed over one of the gym members to heal his physical ailments in the name of Jesus Christ, but after doing so he was asked to leave the gym.
Fasler told reporters that the gym member he helped complained of body pain in the locker room. He offered to pray over him and the person agreed.
"I prayed three to four times as the healing came progressively, until he was completely freed of pain," the evangelist said. "He was very grateful."
After the healing, Fasler engaged the man in a discussion about faith and Jesus Christ. He also recommended that the man read Josh McDowell's book on Christianity, "More Than a Carpenter."
But a gym employee at Retro Fitness in Manahawkin, New Jersey apparently heard Fasler praying over the other person and told the evangelist he's not supposed to talk about religion or say the name of Jesus at the gym. Fasler said that the employee also declared that she's an atheist.
Police were called to the gym after Fasler wouldn't leave. The evangelist was escorted out of the premises and the officer said he was understanding but confused about why he was being kicked out of the gym.
The police received reports that the evangelist was disturbing the peace. The police did not witness any altercation or incident when they arrived since Fasler was already preparing to head out.
Meanwhile, Retro Fitness issued a statement on their Facebook page citing that Fasler offered to "heal" other members as well. They say that he has been told repeatedly to stop bothering members who only wanted to work out but they claim Fasler has refused. The management also denied that an employee declared she's atheist.
"As a gym/health club, we consider ourselves a business of personal health & mental and spiritual well being," the statement on Facebook read. "Although not technically a 'house of prayer' any member, guest or employee who feels a moment of prayer, meditation or reflection is necessary or beneficial to their well being, is not only welcome, but encouraged to do so."
