On Wednesday, the Supreme Court held that religious employees cannot sue a church for employment discrimination. However, the Court did not make a specific distinction between religious and secular employees. It is the first time the Supreme Court has held that there is a "ministerial exception" to discrimination statues. Supporters of the decision say that it helps to guarantee religious freedom, and the ability of churches to choose their own leaders. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously.
See "Court: Judges cannot get involved in church dispute", Jesse J. Holland, Business Week, January 11, 2012