Alyce Conlon was released by the “Intervarsity Christian Fellowship” (IVCF) from a role providing religious counsel and prayer because she did not meet its code of conduct concerning marriage.

Last week, the 6th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Conlon could not sue the group under the existing employment discrimination laws.  The court determined that the “constitutional protection for religious groups categorically prohibits federal and state governments from becoming involved in religious leadership disputes”.

Chief Justice John Roberts said: “Requiring a church to accept or retain an unwanted minister, or punishing a church for failing to do so, intrudes upon more than a mere employment decision. Such action interferes with the internal governance of the church, depriving the church of control over the selection of those who will personify its beliefs.”

Photo Credits: Wikimedia