UK Chaplain Reaches Legal Settlement After Sermon Controversy

The Rev. Bernard Randall, a Church of England minister, has settled with his former employer after a protracted legal struggle. His case began after delivering a sermon addressing LGBTQ issues, which led to his dismissal and blacklisting.

Randall served as a chaplain for five years at Trent College, a school for K-12 students in Derbyshire, England. In 2018, he opposed the school’s collaboration with Educate and Celebrate, an organization aiming to integrate queer theory into educational culture. Randall’s concerns grew as students questioned why they had to accept LGBTQ ideology in a Christian school, prompting his sermon on freedom of belief.

In his chapel address, Randall affirmed students’ rights to hold traditional Christian views on marriage and sex but insisted on respecting different perspectives. This led to administrative actions against him, including suspension and an investigation by both the school and local authorities. Although a counterterrorism program found him not to be a threat, the Diocese of Derby labeled him a safeguarding risk.

Randall was initially dismissed for gross misconduct but reinstated under strict conditions, only to be laid off at the end of 2020 during the pandemic. Supported by the Christian Legal Centre, Randall contested his dismissal, leading to an order for Trent College to pay £20,000 in costs. Subsequently, a confidential settlement was reached.

After seven years, an independent review by the Diocese of London cleared Randall of all allegations, confirming no harm. Despite this resolution, Randall expressed disappointment with the Church of England’s handling of his case and emphasized the importance of standing for freedom of speech and belief.

Randall voiced concerns about the state of free speech in the UK, highlighting increasing restrictions and contrasting it with the First Amendment protections in the United States. He noted that external attention on UK’s free speech could support efforts to protect these freedoms.

Although Randall completed mandatory training, he awaits the Bishop of Derby’s approval to resume public ministry. Church officials have expressed willingness to assist his potential return.