Veterans Affairs Chaplain Defends Free Speech After Alleged Sanction Over Sermon

Veterans Affairs Chaplain Defends Free Speech After Alleged Sanction Over Sermon

A chaplain serving in the Veterans Affairs system faces allegations of being sanctioned for delivering a sermon at the Coatesville VA Medical Center in Pennsylvania. His legal representation argues that this action infringes on the fundamental rights protected by the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

This situation has drawn significant attention, leading the First Liberty Institute and the Independence Law Center to issue a formal letter calling for immediate intervention from U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins. The letter emphasizes the need to dismantle what they describe as an oppressive speech code imposed on the Veterans Affairs employees.

Erin Smith, an associate counsel at First Liberty Institute, stated, “The government has no business censoring anyone’s sermon, including military chaplains. This policy reflects a progressive agenda that could undermine religious expression within the VA.”

Randall Wenger of the Independence Law Center echoed this sentiment, asserting that chaplains should not be expected to relinquish their First Amendment rights in service. He stressed that restricting the content of a sermon constitutes an unconstitutional breach of religious freedom and speech rights.

Background of the Incident

Rusty Trubey, a seasoned Army Reserve Chaplain with nearly a decade of service at the Coatesville VA Medical Center, found himself at the center of controversy following a worship service in June 2024. Trubey’s sermon, based on the first chapter of Romans, examined the consequences of a culture that excludes God.

Smith elaborated that Trubey prepared attendees for the sermon’s challenging content by warning them that certain biblical teachings might be uncomfortable. He specifically referenced Romans 1:23-32, discussing behaviors described in the scripture, including those labeled as homosexual conduct.

Despite some attendees leaving during the sermon, Trubey continued to deliver his message. However, shortly after the service concluded, a VA police officer approached him regarding complaints linked to his sermon.

Consequences and Internal Investigations

In the wake of the complaints, Trubey informed his supervisor, Chaplain Brynn White, of the situation. Following this, he was removed from his chaplaincy duties and subjected to an investigation that stretched over several months, with threats of a permanent mark on his record.

Although Trubey returned to his duties, he described his prior assignment to what’s colloquially known as “nurse jail,” where his responsibilities included stocking shelves and managing inventory instead of performing chaplaincy work.

While the Coatesville facility has since withdrawn its proposed reprimand, Trubey alleges that his supervisor implemented what he perceives as an unconstitutional sermon review process. This new procedure ostensibly seeks to restrict the topics chaplains may preach on.

Implications of the Proposed Changes

The legal team representing Trubey warns that implementing new policies could penalize chaplains for expressing their religious beliefs. Such a move could stifle religious expression within the field.

The lawyers articulated that the revised Standard Operating Procedures might allow supervisors, like Chaplain White, to discriminate against chaplains based on the perceived divisiveness of their viewpoints on cultural or political matters.

The legal correspondence pointed out that the Supreme Court established a vital principle in cases like United States v. Eichman, which posits that the government cannot suppress ideas simply because they are offensive or disagreeable. Notably, various religious texts—like the Bible—address themes that could be seen as controversial, making it challenging for chaplains to avoid these subjects entirely.

Looking Ahead

Smith expressed optimism that Secretary Collins will support the principles of religious liberty and free speech in his responsibilities as VA Secretary. She expressed anticipation of positive developments regarding the chaplaincy and broader religious freedoms within the Veterans Affairs system.

The hope remains that the situation can reach an amicable resolution without escalating to litigation. Yet, Trubey’s legal representatives stand ready to advocate for him should the need arise.

Contacted for comments, a representative from the Coatesville VA Medical Center acknowledged receipt of the letter and indicated they are assessing the situation. They confirmed their commitment to upholding the freedom of speech and the First Amendment rights of all individuals.

A Call for Vigilance on Free Speech

The unfolding controversy around Chaplain Trubey serves as a reminder of the ongoing debates surrounding free speech and religious expression, particularly within government-affiliated institutions. Vigilance in protecting these rights remains crucial as advocates for freedom of expression continue to navigate the complexities of modern values and beliefs.