Members of a Niles church have been asked to pray for their pastor who was arrested this week in a  human trafficking sting.

A message posted Wednesday on the Niles Christian Assembly Facebook page announced that Bible study at the church had been canceled that night.

Instead, the congregation was asked to turn off their devices and spend from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at home praying for Pastor Aaron Newell, his family, and the church.

Part of that post included a call for members to reflect on their own lives:

“God is faithful! His purposes and plan for Niles Christian Assembly and our pastor are consistent. We must each remain faithful to His call on our lives. Finally, stop and reflect on your own life. Recognize that Satan will attack each of us at our weakest point. Recommit yourself to walk closer to Christ because "the devil is walking about seeking  whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8

Newell was arrested Monday in East Palestine after the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force said he responded to an ad on an escort website and allegedly offered $180 for unprotected sex.

After pleading “not guilty” to charges of engaging in prostitution and possessing criminal tools, Newell was released from jail on bond.

Another court hearing is set for April.