CBNNews.com  - A group of pastors will rally in California, Thursday, to support Rev. Walter Hoye II who faces prison charges for his pro-life demonstration.

Hoye was arrested on May 13, 2008, in front of the Family Planning Specialists clinic in Oakland, Calif.

He was carrying a sign that read, "Jesus loves you and your baby. Let us help," and asking, "Can I talk to you for a minute about abortion alternatives?"

Other African American pastors are gathering to provide moral support to Hoye, saying he was wrongfully convicted.

"We're coming here because black pastors and bishops around this country are just learning of Walter's, fate and to silence the Gospel is unacceptable," said Rev. Johnny Hunter, president of Life Education And Resources Network.

"It violates the freedom of speech of every Christian in this nation," he added.

Pastor Stephen Broden of Dallas, Texas, said the church's role is to protect innocent lives.

"This is a deliberate attempt to silence the Church and its prophetic role in protecting the innocent lives in our community and especially Black babies," he said. "Pastor Hoye represents a legacy of resistance by Black preachers to injustices perpetrated on the beloved community."

In January, Hoye was found guilty of two misdemeanor counts of violating an ordinance in Oakland that makes it unlawful to approach within eight feet of patients or staff without their consent.

Hoye is scheduled to receive his sentence on Thursday and could face up to two years in prison and/or $4,000 in fines.