The trial of a Northern Irish preacher, who denounced Islam from the pulpit, has begun today in Belfast.
In a sermon preached last year at Whitewell Metropolitan Tabernacle in Belfast, 78-year-old Pastor James McConnell said that "Islam is heathen, Islam is Satanic, Islam is a doctrine spawned in Hell”.
In a controversial move, the Public Prosecution Service later brought charges under the 2003 Communications Act, as Pastor McConnell’s sermon was streamed online.
Mr McConnell now faces what is expected to be a three-day trial at Belfast Magistrates Court.
In a show of solidarity, over 100 supporters sat in the public gallery as the trial began.
During the initial hearing in September, hundreds of people gathered at Laganside Court Complex in Belfast city centre to show their support for Pastor McConnell.
After that hearing, Pastor McConnell commented: "Either they try me and put me in prison or I am free to preach the gospel."
Related News:
Belfast preacher willing to be 'put in prison'
First Minister defends Belfast pastor over Islam criticism
Related Coverage:
Pastor James McConnell: Trial begins over Islam broadcast (BBC)
Muslim scholar backs Christian pastor's right to call Islam 'satanic' (Guardian)
Pastor James McConnell - Trial begins over 'satanic Islam' sermon (Belfast Telegraph)