Q: Can I be told I cannot go to Church if I have not caused any problems at the Church or committed any crime?
- I taught at a catholic school and my contract was not renewed because I have differences of opinion with the principal. I was for another job in the archdiocese but then my offer was revoked because they felt I was not transparent enough about my previous non-renewal. I was informed in writing that I was not to apply to other archdiocesan schools, and that I am not allowed on archdiocesan property. I am Catholic and go to Mass at a parish 10 miles from my former school. Can I still go to Mass? Can I be barred from practicing my faith when I haven't committed any wrong doing?
A:
The law does not interject itself into matters of church discipline.
Your question brings up the doctrine of separation of church and state. The phrase "separation of church and state" is sometimes tossed around to suggest that people should not exercise faith in public places. However, the true meaning of "separation of church and state" indicates that the state has no business being involved with matters of church order or discipline -- under the Constitution, the government will not mandate or control religion. The First Amendment to the Constitution guarantees the right to practice one's religion (publicly and privately) although it leaves the relationship between parishioners and parish entirely up to those parties.
In other words, if a particular congregation / church / denomination restricts someone from attending or being a member of a particular congregation, the law allows the church to do so and ordinarily won't inquire into the reasons or otherwise referee such dealings.
Without reading the text of the described letter, the extent of the restriction against going onto property isn't clear. It may be prudent to contact the author of the letter and directly ask whether it prevents joining or attending service at a congregation.
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