Expert: Michael Troy - 1/14/2010

Question
My friends (not Christians as I am) asked me if I knew any Boble verses. I told them I did and quoted a rather lengthy chapter of Psalms from the Bible. One of my teachers appeared from behind the door and stated that I should have better use of my time than that, and that memorizing that was a wast of my time. I torted that those were my God's sacred words and that they are to be respected...he then walked out of the school. Was what my teacher said legal in the American school system, or am I just overreacting?  

Answer
Hi Mary,

As the courts have interpreted the free exercise clause, public school teachers may neither encourage nor discourage students with regard to religion.  His actions would probably be deemed a violation as you describe them.  However, he might argue he was not acting as a teacher but rather simply offering some friendly advice.  I cannot provide specific legal advice in this forum but you probably could pursue a legal action if you wish to consult an attorney.

If it were me, as long as this did not become a pattern of harassment, I would let it go.  As Jesus said: "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."  From a Christian perspective, he has a misguided view of the religion, but is not really doing anything to stop you from practicing yours, beyond providing his opinion.  Even if this might be deemed a constitutional violation, it would be hard to show how you were harmed.  You are obviously secure in your beliefs and are not going to be dissuaded by his expression of opinion.  If he is not treating you differently because of your beliefs, it's not worth a federal case in my view.

Of course, this is just my opinion.  If you wanted to pursue legal action, there are a number of organizations that would probably be happy to provide aid.  The American Center for Law and Justice and the Beckett Fund are two that jump to mind.

- Mike