Published November 5, 2005 - Glendale News Press - Los Angeles Time
IN THEORY
Q: The Supreme Court this week heard arguments in a case that brings up the question of whether the nation's drug laws should ever trump religious freedom. In Gonzales vs. O Centro Espirita Beneficiente Uniao Do Vegetal, the court could reportedly grapple with what happens when a religious ceremony requires consumption of a drug outlawed under the Controlled Substances Act.
The case involves a New Mexico religious sect of 130 members that uses a tea made of hallucinogenic substances banned in the U.S. But this sacramental tea has been likened to the wine at a Roman Catholic Mass or unleavened bread at a Passover Seder. What do you think? Do the nation's drug laws supersede religion in this context?
A: From as early as the 19th century, the courts have distinguished between religious beliefs and religious practices or actions. While beliefs are granted the full protection of the constitution, not so with actions, as is evidenced in the current issue regarding the use of "sacramental drugs."
During the Prohibition era, sacramental users of wine were exempt from the general prohibition laws and the element, which was transformed through religious practices into the blood of Christ, was secured through governmental resources. I imagine the same type of procedures can be adopted for the procurement of hallucinogens today.
This case is going to be a good test for our system. Sure it will answer questions about the extent of law and religious freedom, but it will answer even greater issues of tolerance and relativism. And the outcome may catch a lot of people off guard.
While many believe that heightening awareness of God via chemicals is sacrilege, we can only see ourselves on the other side of the looking glass, and the bizarre world of religion, that justifies many profane behaviors in the name of the divine. It gives us another opportunity to consider Marx's assessment that religion is the opium of the people.
FATHER VAZKEN MOVSESIAN
Armenian Church
Youth Ministries
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