Bernard H. Cochran: A clear model

Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis’ claim that Pope Francis has personally supported her Pentacostal stand against gay marriage was refuted by the Vatican (“Vatican says Pope’s only ‘real audience’ was with gay couple.” Oct. 3 news article). Having been married four times, divorced three, Davis is hardly an ideal poster woman for Catholic teaching or papal blessing.

Even though the Catholic Church rejects divorce as the solution for a troubled marriage, Pope Francis would surely not support any Catholic magistrate’s refusal to process divorce papers – an unthinkable possibility – since the magistrate’s action would be in opposition to Catholic teaching.

Moreover, a public school official, believing that God intended the races to be kept separate, cannot create a segregated school in defiance of the law, religious belief notwithstanding.

The divorce model is clear – Catholic magistrates should not get divorced but must process divorce papers or resign. Likewise, Davis can personally reject gay marriage but not the law. Her resignation or removal from office should not await the next election.

The right to believe anything is constitutionally protected. The right to act, or refuse to act, on that belief has constitutional limitations.

This story was originally published October 20, 2015 at 4:28 PM with the headline "Bernard H. Cochran: A clear model."