UK School Chaplain’s Legal Battle Over Sermon Ends in Settlement

Rev. Bernard Randall, a former school chaplain in the United Kingdom, received a confidential settlement after a lengthy legal dispute with his previous employer. This case ended a seven-year struggle stemming from a sermon he delivered on LGBTQ issues.

Randall served as a chaplain at Trent College, a school in Derbyshire, England, for five years. Concern arose in 2018 when the school collaborated with Educate and Celebrate, an organization aiming to integrate queer theory into school culture. Randall expressed reservations about this partnership, stating his senior leaders were unresponsive to his concerns.

In response to inquiries from students about the requirement to accept LGBTQ ideology, Randall addressed the issue in a sermon. He emphasized the right to hold traditional Christian beliefs, underscoring the importance of respecting differing viewpoints.

Following his sermon, Randall faced disciplinary action. School administrators suspended him, interrogated him, and reported him to authorities. However, a counterterrorism program found no threat in his actions. The Diocese of Derby blacklisted him, raising safeguarding concerns, which were later deemed unfounded.

Randall eventually lost his job and challenged his dismissal in court with support from the Christian Legal Centre. A tribunal appeal led to a retrial order and a significant compensation award for Randall. The parties later settled the dispute confidentially.

After years of exclusion from ministry, a review confirmed no evidence of misconduct. Randall expressed relief over the findings. He remained critical of the Church of England’s handling of his case and emphasized the importance of free speech and belief.

Randall voiced concerns about free speech in the UK, acknowledging the importance of international support. He noted ongoing free speech discussions between the UK and other countries, including the US.

Although prepared to return to ministry, Randall awaits formal permission to officiate from the Bishop of Derby. The Diocese of Derby affirmed their willingness to support his return, providing information about current opportunities and resources available to him.