BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - A pastor was taken back to jail Thursday for continuing to refuse to tell a grand jury what he knows about a woman who fled the country to escape a custody dispute with her former lesbian partner.
Kenneth Miller, a Mennonite pastor from Stuarts Draft, Va., and U.S. District Court Judge William Session III continued their philosophical discussion about deeply held religious beliefs versus the needs of the law.
Miller told the judge that the week he has spent in jail has strengthened his resolve that his beliefs require him to follow God's law when they conflict with civil law. He said he is willing to pay the price, even if it means more time in jail.
"If I were to bring testimony against a fellow member of Christ's kingdom, for honoring Christ's kingdom's laws, I would be disloyal to his kingdom and to Christ," Miller said.
More
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
This will resonate throughout the Catholic community depending on which way it goes.Who knows how many serial killers,rapists,arsonists,etc etc have confessed their sins to a Catholic Priest.Confidentialiy also extends beyond the religious boundaries.Certain medical professionals also have the right to withold information.Psychotherapists are under no obligation to reveal the secrets of their patients.
ReplyDelete