The Rev. Bernard Randall, a former chaplain at Trent College in Derbyshire, United Kingdom, has reached a confidential settlement with the school after being dismissed for delivering a sermon on LGBTQ issues. Randall, who served at the school for five years, raised concerns in 2018 when the school partnered with an organization aimed at promoting LGBTQ inclusivity. In 2019, after a student questioned the school's stance on LGBTQ ideology, Randall delivered a sermon advocating for traditional Christian beliefs while encouraging respect for differing views.
Following the sermon, he was suspended and investigated, ultimately being dismissed for gross misconduct. Although he was reinstated on appeal under strict conditions, he was laid off at the end of 2020. With the support of the Christian Legal Centre, Randall challenged his dismissal, leading to a retrial ordered by the Employment Appeal Tribunal. After seven years of being barred from ministry, an independent review cleared him of all safeguarding allegations.
Randall expressed relief at the ruling but noted the personal toll of the situation. He voiced concerns about the state of free speech in the UK, referencing support from U.S. officials regarding the importance of freedom of expression. He is currently awaiting permission to return to public ministry from the Bishop of Derby.