Coronavirus in the News: How Far Does Freedom of Religion Extend?

“It’s not a concern,” Reverend Tony Spell said of the pandemic, following his service to a packed house of 1,700. “The virus, we believe, is politically motivated. We hold our religious rights dear and we are going to assemble no matter what someone says.” As reported here, it’s possible that the National Guard will be brought in to break up any further such occurrences, but these are the type of matters that wind up in the Supreme Court, as they are rooted in interpretations of the U.S. Constitution.

Modern interpretations tend to go against religious fanatics.  In the 21st Century, Mormons who “marry” 11-year-olds are now charged with statutory rape, and Christian Scientists who deny their children life-saving medical treatments go down for negligent homicide, so it appears probable that Rev. Spell and his 1,170 moron cultists are going to lose this one.