Since this is a Christian private organization, there is a sense from other Christians that she should be forgiven and/or let go and/or still supported by the school while she is without employment.
This private school, just like many churches and other Christian private organizations, purposely has sets of rules to maintain a Christ-like environment. These rules pertain to the leaders within the organizations. I look at this school as similar to a church to where if a single leader within a church were having premarital sex they, too, should be relieved of their duties. Forgiven, yes. God holds leaders/ teachers to a higher level of responsibility than the "student/learner" within the church.
I also look at this subject in a contractual manner. If she signed the contract and waivered on any part at any time, than her emplyment is subject to termination. I understand the Christian side of forgiveness; however, these rules are set in place for a reason... that is for the benefit and welfare of the students. Parents are paying out of pocket for their child to learn in an environment that is held to a higher standard than public school. The fact of the matter is, she broke her contract and should pay the consequences.
People keep bringing up her being treated as Christ would respond....with mercy and grace. Christ forgives us of our sins, but when we are disobedient there are consequences to be paid for our actions. As a Christian, life does not just merrily go along being forgiven without negative result. For example, one can be sexually promiscuous and get an STD or AIDS...would God forgive us? Yes. Does AIDS or an STD magically go away? No. We could murder someone. God forgives us but we still may face jail time. God reprimands us and shows us His love, and as Christians we know this can be a painful road when we mess up. There are always consequences for our actions.
If this lady had broken
any other part of her contract no one would have any problem with agreeing she would need to be let go... If she never came to work, should she just be forgiven and still maintain her job? Rules are rules are rules. If this had been a problem for her remaining abstinent, perhaps it should have been discussed during the hirinf process.
My last comment is that I guess I feel she should be terminated and if the church is willing and gracious, to allow her another position should she marry at a later time and
only if there is an opening. A private organization being what it is, can make the rule to fire people that wear red socks if they want to...as long as it is stated before hire and the prospective employee understands and signs. No matter how silly the rule may sound to someone else, it is none of our business. It is a private institution and we, as the public, can like it or not. Just don't send in an application or accept an offer if you disagree. The facts are what they are. You can't sign and then squawk about it later. We always have a choice. No one forced her to work there.
If she had not gotten pregnant, would she be making a big deal out of this part of the contract? Probably not..... Interesting.
It is now only a problem b/c she is dealing with the consequences.
Compassion for those who only do right isn't compassion at all.
Actions speak louder than words Michael.
