Massachusetts vs. the Mission of Gordon College

Can a Court Dictate How a Christian College Carries Out Its Mission?

Many students choose Christian colleges because they want to integrate learning with their faith. And Christian colleges wouldn’t exist if they could not make decisions according with their beliefs—that’s the whole point of their existence.

Under the First Amendment, religious organizations like colleges have a right to keep their faith an integral part of their operations through their employment decisions, without government interference.

The U.S. Supreme Court has made it clear that the government should stay out of religious schools’ hiring practices.

But, apparently, the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts did not get the memo.

And now the mission of one Christian college is in jeopardy.

What is Gordon College?

Gordon College is a Christian college in Wenham, Massachusetts. Originally known as Boston Missionary Training School, it “strives to graduate men and women distinguished by intellectual maturity and Christian character.” The college does this by combining a high-quality liberal arts education with religious instruction.

But it’s because of this integration of faith and learning that students choose to attend Gordon College. They want to learn how to apply their Christian faith to their future careers.

At Gordon College, professors are key to helping students make this connection. Professors are expected to teach not only the subject matter in their classes, but also the faith—and how it all relates.

That’s why, to ensure that it is staying true to its beliefs and mission, Gordon College requires students and faculty alike to sign a statement of faith and agree to abide by biblical standards of living.

And the college is open not only about these requirements but also its faith-based mission, as a quick tour of the college’s website confirms.

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This article excerpt is from our partner, Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). ADF advocates for your right to freely live out your faith.

ABACC and ADF are working together to advise, prepare, and protect your institution. ABACC members get 20% off ADF membership dues.

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