Catholic teacher fired for same-sex marriage views prays for dialogue

Trish Cameron said this wall hanging is a daily reminder she has a responsibility to challenge injustice. The beads were worn by her brother, who was murdered more than 20 years ago. Cameron said he was active in social justice issues. (MPR Photo/Dan Gunderson)

by Dan Gunderson, Minnesota Public Radio
June 27, 2012

MOORHEAD, Minn. — Trish Cameron comes from a strong Catholic tradition. She attended Catholic schools in Moorhead for 12 years. She regularly attends Mass.

But after losing her job at a Catholic elementary school for challenging the church's position on same sex-marriage, Cameron, 46, now prays for healthy dialogue on a "closed and painful" topic.

After 11 years teaching fifth graders at St. Joseph's Catholic school in Moorhead, the same-sex marriage issue was on Cameron's mind as she filled out her annual self-evaluation form this spring.

Part of the evaluation asked teachers to rate how well they support the teachings of the church. In the comment box, Cameron wrote, "I do not agree with all church teachings on a personal level, but I do not bring my own opinions into religion classes."

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/06/27/social-issue/catholic-teacher-fired/