Yes and yes, also. Would you not think it inappropriate for him to be asking females he stopped for "dates"?
What if he were a Muslim, and suggested that they attend his mosque with him? [Grrrrr ....]
The issue here is his inappropriate mixing of public duties with his own private agenda. The stupidity is evidenced by his not realizing that.
"Stewart said D.J. Gainey gave him permission to send her a letter inviting the couple to visit his church."
If he had permission from her to send her an invitation to church, wouldn't it be even more inappropriate for her to seek legal action?