If It Happens in Europe, It’ll Happen in the US

Religious freedom is a fundamental right protected by many democratic countries, including the United States and various countries in Europe. However, in recent years, there have been instances where religious freedoms have been curtailed in Europe, specifically for Christians, and this should serve as a warning for the Church in the United States to be vigilant in protecting these rights. If it is happening in Europe, it will also happen here.

One famous example of religious freedoms being threatened in Europe for Christians is the case of Ashers Bakery in Northern Ireland. In 2014, the bakery was sued for refusing to make a cake with a message in support of same-sex marriage, citing their Christian beliefs. The bakery’s owners were found guilty of discrimination and faced heavy fines, raising concerns about the protection of religious freedom for Christians in Northern Ireland. Ultimately and fortunately, the Supreme Court ruled in their favor.

Another example is the case of British nurse Sarah Kuteh, who was fired from her job after offering to pray with patients before surgery. Kuteh was accused of imposing her religious beliefs on patients and was dismissed for gross misconduct, despite receiving positive feedback from some patients about her care.

More examples could be cited, from praying next to abortion clinics to politicians standing up for traditional, biblical marriage. These examples demonstrate that religious freedoms for Christians are not always guaranteed in Europe, despite the continent’s reputation for liberal democracy. The United States has historically been a beacon for religious freedom, with the First Amendment to the Constitution protecting citizens’ rights to practice their chosen religion. However, there are concerns that this freedom is under threat in the current political climate.

One example of this is the recent controversy surrounding the Supreme Court case involving a Colorado baker who refused to make a cake for a same-sex wedding, citing his religious beliefs. While the Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of the baker, the case raised concerns about the tension between religious freedom and anti-discrimination laws. From praying on football fields to Pro-Life advocacy outside of abortion clinics, our legal courts are busy handling religious freedom situations. Most likely, these battles will continue and we must be alert.

In conclusion, these stories of religious freedoms being threatened in Europe serve as a warning for the United States to be vigilant in protecting these rights. While the country has a strong tradition of religious freedom, it is important to be mindful of the potential threats to this right and work to promote Christian values. The United States should learn from the experiences of Europe and ensure that all citizens are able to freely practice religion without fear of persecution or discrimination.