COMMENTARY: A decision in the Sandra Pavez case in Chile will have broad implications for the protection of religious liberty globally. Cathedral of San Bernardo, Chile. (photo: Wikimedia Commons) Reconciling respect for Catholic teaching on sexuality with the demands of the LGBT movement is aided by a robust protection of religious freedom — not just in the United States, but all over the world. Take, for example, the case of a gay religion teacher in Chile. For many years the Diocese of San Bernardo certified Sandra Pavez to teach religion in the local public schools. Under Chilean law, local dioceses grant certification for religion teachers at government-run schools in this predominantly Catholic country. In 2007, Pavez told the diocesan vicar of education that she was in a same-sex relationship. Pointing to the Church’s teaching regarding human sexuality and to canon law, the diocese revoked Pavez’s certification. Interestingly, the school retained Pavez as a teacher for other material and promoted her to the post of inspector general — a prestigious administrative role. Pavez, however, was not pleased. She unsuccessfully sued the diocese in Chilean court. Pavez was adamant that the diocese be sanctioned. She filed a complaint against Chile with […]
