Show notes:
In the first segment, our panelists discuss the forced resignation of an Australian football executive due to his religious affiliation. Andrew Thorburn, appointed as CEO of Essendon Football Club, stepped down just a day later after his connection to a conservative Melbourne church was revealed. Thorburn attributed his resignation to the intolerance of his Christian faith in the public sphere. The club president, however, cited a conflict of interest and stated that the decision was not about vilifying religious beliefs but ensuring alignment with the club’s inclusive values.
In the second segment of the show, we explore the court case American Legion v. American Humanist Association. The Supreme Court deliberated on whether a government-sponsored display of a 40-foot cross, the Bladensburg Cross, violated the establishment clause. The U.S. Court of Appeals had deemed the display unconstitutional, but in a reversal, the Supreme Court voted in favor of allowing the cross to remain. However, the case showcased the court’s deep divisions regarding the interpretation of the establishment clause, leaving the future standards for religious displays uncertain.
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About the Show:
Faith and Politics is a show dedicated to discussing issues surrounding the intersection of Church, State and politics and the examination of whether you are allowing your faith to shape your politics or your politics starting to shape your faith. What do you do when God and government come face to face?
Panelists:
Dr. Lawrence Brown, Associate PARL (Public Affairs & Religious Liberty) Director Northeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists; Bettina Krause, Editor, of Liberty Magazine; Nia Johnson, Visiting Assistant Professor of Law at Duke University; and Melissa Reid, Washington Liaison for the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
About Us:
North American Division Public Affairs & Religious Liberty (PARL) is a ministry dedicated to proclaiming and defending the God-given gift of religious freedom which is integral to our identity as Seventh-day Adventist Christians. Learn more about PARL at www.religiousliberty.info.
Panelists
Dr. Lawrence Brown
Bettina Krause
Nia Johnson
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