Protection of Religious Confessions

In the first segment, our panelists discuss the rise in hostility against churches, focusing on Section 1032 of the California Evidence Code. This code’s confessional privilege protects only one-on-one confessions, resembling the Catholic Church’s model. However, courts in other states have protected the confessional privilege even when relatives were present. A significant case involving Pastor Rich Hamlin highlights the need for a broader interpretation to avoid discrimination against religious denominations with confidential spiritual counseling practices. Stay tuned for a comprehensive analysis of this concerning trend.

In the second segment of the show, we explore the court case Belya v. Kapral et.al. Father Alexander Belya claims he was elected as a Vicar Bishop in the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR), but the Church disputes this. Instead of appealing within the Church, he sued for defamation. The case raises questions about civil courts’ involvement in religious organizations’ internal affairs and potential violations of the First Amendment. The Second Circuit Court of Appeals allowed the case to proceed on August 17, 2022.

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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:
Rushern Baker President and CEO of the Baker Strategy Group and University of Maryland Professor Public Policy; Bettina Krause, Editor of Liberty Magazine; André Wang, General Counsel and Director of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty for the North Pacific Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church; Jennifer Woods, General Counsel and Director of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty for the Lake Union Conference 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.