Catholic bishops resist blue state law, say they will ‘obey God rather than men’

The Catholic bishops of Washington state are standing firm in their commitment to protect the seal of confession, even in the face of a new law signed by Democratic Governor Bob Ferguson. The law, which is set to go into effect on July 26, requires members of the clergy to report information related to child abuse or neglect to law enforcement, without providing an exception for information shared during confession.

Bishop Thomas Daly of Spokane made it clear that he and his priests are prepared to go to jail rather than violate the sanctity of the confessional. He emphasized that the sacrament of confession is sacred and must remain protected within the Diocese of Spokane. Seattle Archbishop Paul Etienne echoed this sentiment, stating that Catholic clergy must obey God rather than the state, even if it means facing excommunication from the Church.

The issue at hand raises questions about the separation of church and state, as well as the First Amendment’s protection of religious freedom. Archbishop Etienne pointed out that once the state asserts the right to dictate religious practices and coerce information obtained within the sacrament of confession, it opens the door to potential encroachments on other religious practices.

In response to the new law, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division has launched an investigation to determine if it violates the religious protections enshrined in the First Amendment. The division expressed concern that the law singles out clergy as the only group who may not rely on legal privileges, such as the seal of confession, as a defense against mandatory reporting.

Bishop Joseph Tyson of Yakima welcomed the Justice Department’s investigation, noting that the bishops’ attempts to address their concerns with the governor had been ignored. He emphasized that the seal of confession is essential for penitents to confront their moral accountability and seek guidance towards repentance and reconciliation.

While Governor Ferguson has not responded to requests for comment on the matter, the Catholic bishops of Washington state remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the sanctity of the confessional. They are hopeful that the investigation by the Justice Department will lead to a resolution that respects both religious freedom and the protection of children from abuse.