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American churches have largely embraced wireless technology, sometimes installing cell phone towers in steeples for the cash. Other churches offer pagers at the nursery. "I think parents like knowing they can be contacted," children's education ministry director M'Lissa Howen told The Dallas Morning News. But being contacted can go to extremes, as Francisco Llopis, pastor of the Church of the Defenseless in Moraira, Spain, found after being interrupted repeatedly by congregants' cell phones, pagers, text messages, and other technology. He installed an electronic jammer in his church, which renders such devices useless. "I ensure that the religious service is celebrated within the parameters of prayer," he said. Don't get any ideas: the devices are illegal in the U.S.

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Articles referenced above include:

Answering the silent call—The Dallas Morning News (March 9, 2002)

Priest cuts off his flock—Associated Press (March 9, 2002)

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May 21 2002, Vol. 46, No. 6