Show notes:
In the first segment, our panelists discuss the Child Victims Act. The Maryland Catholic Conference, representing the Catholic church in Maryland, has announced its support for legislation that would eliminate the statute of limitations for future victims of priest sexual abuse to sue the church. However, they remain opposed to a “lookback window” that would allow older victims currently unable to sue to file lawsuits. Maryland law currently sets a deadline for child abuse victims to file lawsuits by age 38 or within three years of the abuser’s conviction. Advocates argue that the current law has allowed the Catholic church to shield offenders from civil action. If passed, the proposed legislation will provide adults who suffered sexual abuse as children the opportunity to seek compensation for the harm they endured. The issue of priest sexual abuse and reforms surrounding it will be debated in the upcoming session of the General Assembly, involving state lawmakers, the church, and sexual abuse survivors.
In the second segment of the show, we explore the court case of Groff v. DeJoy. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case of Groff v. DeJoy, which will determine the extent to which employers must accommodate the religious beliefs of their employees. Gerald Groff, a former mail carrier, sued the U.S. Postal Service after being required to work Sunday shifts, which conflicted with his Christian beliefs. Federal law mandates that companies accommodate religious beliefs unless it creates an “undue hardship.” However, the definition of “undue hardship” has been interpreted narrowly, allowing employers to avoid making accommodations in many cases. Advocates argue that it is time for the Supreme Court to reconsider this interpretation and prioritize the religious rights of employees over the interests of corporations and the government. While personal religious practice is protected by Title VII and the Constitution, there are limits to these protections, according to Rachel Laser, president and CEO for Americans United for Separation of Church and State.
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About the Show: Faith & 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. Timothy Golden, Professor of Philosophy at Walla Walla University; Congressman Glenn Ivey from the 4th District of Maryland; Alan J. Reinach Executive Director and General Counsel of the Church State Council; and Melissa Reid, Director of Government Affairs 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. Timothy Golden
Glenn Ivey
Alan J. Reinach
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