In what may be its most significant religious liberty decision in two decades, the Supreme Court on Wednesday for the first time recognized a \u201cministerial exception\u201d\u009d to employment discrimination laws, saying that churches and other religious groups must be free to choose and dismiss their leaders without government interference.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe interest of society in the enforcement of employment discrimination statutes is undoubtedly important,\u201d\u009d Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. wrote in a decision that was surprising in both its sweep and its unanimity. \u201cBut so, too, is the interest of religious groups in choosing who will preach their beliefs, teach their faith and carry out their mission.\u201d\u009d<\/p>\n
The decision gave only limited guidance about how courts should decide who counts as a minister, saying the court was \u201creluctant to adopt a rigid formula.\u201d\u009d Two concurring opinions offered contrasting proposals.<\/p>\n