Priest installs device to block cell phones

Christian Century, April 10, 2002

Fed up with the ringing and buzzing of cell phones during mass, a Catholic priest in Spain has installed an electronic jammer in his church to block cell phone signals. Francisco Llopis said he installed the transmitter--which is illegal in the U.S., Britain and Canada--to keep worshipers focused on prayer and worship.

"I ensure that the religious service is celebrated within the parameters of prayer," said Llopis, pastor of the Church of the Defenseless in the southeast coastal town of Moraira, according to the Associated Press.

The device emits low-power radio signals that block the cell phone communications. The jammers are also used to create quiet zones in restaurants, movie theaters and libraries.

--RNS