Judge Rules Christian Group Can Close Jersey Shore Beach Access on Sundays

Ocean Grove Beach Access Dispute

• 📌 A judge has ruled that the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, a Christian group, can resume closing beach access on Sunday mornings.
• 💡 This decision allows the group to reinstate a century-old tradition of observing quiet Sunday mornings for worship.

Background of the Tradition

• 🏖️ Ocean Grove, known as "God's Square Mile," is privately owned by the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association and is famous for its family-friendly beach and Victorian homes.
• ⏰ The group historically closed its beaches for worship from 9:00 am to noon on Sundays.
• 🗣️ Supporters of the tradition emphasize that it's only for three hours and that alternative access is available through neighboring towns.

Legal Challenges and Current Status

• ⚖️ Nearly two years ago, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection ordered the association to stop blocking beach access, citing public access laws.
• 🔄 An administrative judge has now sided with the Christian group, potentially allowing the closures to resume.
• ⚠️ The state's attorney general has requested the commissioner to keep the beach open on Sundays, and the commissioner will make the final decision.
• 🎤 Representatives from the Camp Meeting Association and the Department of Environmental Protection have not yet commented.