Conversations That Matter The Trails Church Disfellowships an H-1B Heretic
Oct 8, 2025
Daniel Keene, a North Texas small-business owner of Boundaries Coffee and former campus minister, recounts his confrontation with The Trails Church. After a viral post criticizing H-1B visas and demographic changes, he faced an intense interrogation from church elders. The discussion includes concerns over racial animosity accusations, public Hindu celebrations in his neighborhood, and the emotional toll on his family. Daniel sheds light on the clash between personal convictions and institutional pressures, ultimately leading to his church expulsion.
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From International Student Ministry To Local Business
- Daniel explains his ministry background with CRU and service to international students at University of Arkansas.
- He and his wife later moved back to DFW, opened Boundaries Coffee, and joined The Trails Church for its gospel preaching.
The Post That Sparked Elders' Concern
- Daniel posted a video of a Hindustani Ganesh street celebration and wrote 'We have to end the H-1B visas now. I want my kids to grow up in America. Not India.'
- Elders flagged that specific line and his post's tone as racially uncharitable.
Politics Finds You Even If You Avoid It
- Daniel realized churches inevitably confront political issues even if members try to avoid them.
- He warns that being politically disengaged doesn't protect you from ecclesial consequences when cultural issues arise.