discrimination/religious freedom

But the demand for hierarchy has a larger impact on politics. In Bill Clinton’s often-quoted words: “When times are uncertain, the American people would rather have a leader who is wrong but strong than one who is right but weak.” Just as the father must rule to keep the home in order, and the Father in Heaven must be obeyed to keep the universe in order, so the “great white father” in the White House must have firm control to keep order in the political realm.

In some quarters the Catholic Health Association’s rejection of the Obama administration’s compromise was treated as a reversal of position. But is it really all about contraceptive coverage?

The ACLU wants to know more about how Obama’s faith-based project funds employment discrimination.

Will it be seen as emblematic of anti-abortion activism?

Peter Singer: if your religious beliefs don’t permit it, don’t do it.

It’s easy to understand the Vatican’s consternation when faced with sisters radical enough to think their own thoughts and write them down. Nuns aren’t trained to be troublemakers.

Just in time for the election comes the film version of Mexico’s Cristero War, depicting brave rebels risking it all for religious freedom. Only problem with the story: it’s not really true.

From Anne Hutchinson to the HHS contraception mandate.

The religious are free, but not because they enjoy religious freedom. They are free insofar as all are free. In a liberal society, we all inhabit an equal space of personal and associative liberty in which to worship, blaspheme, or just fix our suppers.

Georgetown founder John Carroll wouldn’t be surprised to find his university in a controversy concerning the appropriate place of religious groups in civil affairs… but he might be surprised that this time an attack came from within the Church.