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Christian Scientist is Denied Research Application on Basis of Faith

  • Veronica Neffinger

    Veronica Neffinger wrote her first poem at age seven and went on to study English in college, focusing on 18th century literature. When she is not listening to baseball games, enjoying the…

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  • Updated May 11, 2017

Dr. Andrew Snelling is an accomplished scientist and researcher. He is also a committed man of faith.

Recently, Dr. Snelling, who works for Ken Ham’s Kentucky-based Answers in Genesis, submitted a request to Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) to collect and analyze soil and rock samples, but GCNP denied his request.

In their denial, GCNP made note of Dr. Snelling’s faith, and not his accomplishments and experience, according to CBN News.

Dr. Snelling reapplied and was given permission to collect samples from limited areas, but the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) is still filing a lawsuit in federal court on Snelling’s behalf, alleging that he was discriminated against on the basis of his faith, and that his faith made obtaining the permit more difficult than it should have been.

ADF Attorney Gary McCaleb argued that GCNP is “directly discriminating” against Dr. Snelling.

According to the Phoenix New Times, ADF has compiled a list of emails that demonstrate the biases several park officials had against Dr. Snelling because of his faith.

"Science thrives on debate, but for debate, you need access to information," McCaleb said. It’s wrong, he continued, "for a government official to deny information because of the religious beliefs."

 

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Publication date: May 11, 2017