from Christian Concern
Do Christians have the freedom to live consistently with their beliefs in public life? Uzochi Nwaubani discusses the issues at the heart of Felix Ngole’s appeal.
As I sat in Court 72, observing Felix Ngole’s Court of Appeal hearing, I was struck by how much is at stake in this case.
The case means a lot to Felix and his wife, Pepsy. But the issues before the court could greatly affect every Christian who wishes to live openly and consistently with their faith.
Can Christians be penalised when others discover their beliefs?
At its heart, Felix’s case concerns whether Christians can be penalised, not because of misconduct, but because others may discover and disagree with their Christian beliefs.
Felix had not mistreated service users. He never got the chance, nor would he. Speaking to him for even a moment shows you his clear heart to serve and care for people. His previous Court of Appeal case made abundantly clear that he would not behave in a discriminatory way.
Touchstone, his would-be employer, claims to have a different concern. Their case has been that Felix’s publicly expressed Christian views (known only because of his previous case) create a risk that service users might learn of those beliefs and react negatively. As a result, they withdrew their job offer.
If Touchstone’s position is upheld, the implications extend far beyond Felix. It would affect teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, and many others whose employers, colleagues or service users may object to lawful expressions of biblical belief.