In a significant move for people of faith working in government, federal agencies are now required to protect religious expression in the workplace. A new government-wide memo from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) aims to ensure that employees can live their faith without fear of career repercussions, according to Fox News.
The memo explains that agencies must “allow personal religious expression by Federal employees to the greatest extent possible unless such expression would impose an undue hardship on business operations.” It states that “The Federal workforce should be a welcoming place for Federal employees who practice a religious faith,” and warns that “Allowing religious discrimination in the Federal workplace violates the law. It also threatens to adversely impact recruitment and retention of highly‑qualified employees of faith,” according to OPM.
Scott Kupor, the OPM Director, said, “Federal employees should never have to choose between their faith and their career. This guidance ensures the federal workplace is not just compliant with the law but welcoming to Americans of all faiths.” He added that “under President Trump’s leadership, we are restoring constitutional freedoms and making government a place where people of faith are respected, not sidelined,” as reported by Fox News.
The new guidance details what federal employees are now permitted to do:
- Display Bibles, crucifixes, rosaries, mezuzahs, or other religious symbols at their desks, provided they are treated no differently than other personal decorations.
- Pray alone or in groups during break times and even invite coworkers to religious services, so long as participation is voluntary.
- Engage in religious conversation, including sharing their faith with colleagues, as long as it is not harassing and stops if the other employee asks them to, according to Fox News.
- Express faith in interactions with the public, like praying with a coworker or member of the public, as long as it is not done in an official capacity, according to The Washington Post.
This policy is rooted in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits religious discrimination in employment. It also reflects the Supreme Court’s decision in Groff v. DeJoy in 2023, which requires employers to accommodate religious practices unless doing so would cause a substantial hardship, according to the official OPM guidance.
For Catholics, this marks an important acknowledgment of the right to live out one’s faith in public life. Being able to keep a rosary on a desk, offer a prayer during a lunch break, or invite a colleague to Mass without fear of punishment reflects the Church’s call to witness to the faith in daily life. It is also a sign that government service does not require hiding or sidelining one’s beliefs.
While the guidance provides new clarity, some experts caution that it may lead to disputes if employees feel pressured by religious discussions. Agencies are reminded to ensure that conversations remain voluntary and respectful, according to GovExec.
Ultimately, this move represents one of the most sweeping federal efforts in decades to defend the right of government employees to practice and share their faith. For Catholic civil servants, it is a welcome assurance that faith and public service can coexist.
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