On Dec. 27, a federal court ruled in favor of Grace College suspending the enforcement of the abortion pill mandate against the Winona Lake based school.

According to Grace, the injunction allows the school to continue offering medical coverage to its employees without compromising the school’s religious standpoint against the drug.

“The mandate violates our religious beliefs,” explained Lisa Harman, senior benefits specialist at the school. “A government agency should not have the right to define what constitutes freedom of religion, or be able to apply their very narrow definition of a ‘religious organization.’ It sets a dangerous precedent.”

According to Harman, the lawsuit, was filed jointly with Biola University in California in August 2012, and has received much support. “Staff and students have been very supportive of Grace’s decision to fight the mandate,” she explained. “In fact, many staff and students signed petitions against the mandate.  The Grace community believes that human life is worthy of respect and protection at all stages, from the time of conception.”

The suit is a direct challenge to the Department of Health and Human Services requirement which mandates faith-based employers must provide insurance coverage to its employees, which includes all government approved contraceptive drugs including those objected to by many as abortifacient. The joint suit argues that the contraceptive mandate violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act as well as the schools’ First and Fifth Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution.

“Grace appreciates the court’s decision in upholding our rights as a Christian-based institution to keep our most core beliefs and convictions regarding the sanctity of human life,” added Grace President Bill Katip. “Although this is only the first step, we believe the courts will continue to see the unconstitutional nature of this mandate and continue to protect our religious freedoms.”

When asked how Harman believes the decision to fight the mandate will affect the perception of the school, both locally and nationally, she stated, “Grace is committed to the mission of the institution. Grace is an evangelical Christian community of higher education which applies biblical values in strengthening character, sharpening competence, and preparing for service. The decision to fight the mandate is in alignment with our mission and values.”

For additional information concerning the federal law suit, see the press release from Alliance Defending Freedom HERE.