Christian Concern is in Strasbourg this week to raise awareness of religious freedom cases involving British Christians.

The advocacy group is supporting the cases of Gary McFarlane and Shirley Chaplin, who have taken their cases to the European Court of Human Rights after losing legal challenges in British courts.

Gary McFarlane, a relationships counsellor, was dismissed by his employers, Relate, for gross misconduct after he expressed reservations about giving sex therapy to homosexual couples.

Shirley Chaplin, a nurse, was told by her employers that she was not allowed to wear a cross necklace at work. When she refused to take it off, she was removed from ward duties.

“Gary and Shirley are the tip of the iceberg,” said Andrea Minichiello Williams, director of Christian Concern.

“We have many other clients on our books and many more waiting to hear back from us to see if we can help.”

Ms Williams is meeting members of the Parliamentary Assembly to make them aware that the cases are being heard at the ECHR on 4 September.

“This is our last chance before the summer recess to talk to people here about the ramifications of these cases and the critical importance of protecting Christian freedoms and conscience,” she said.

“I want to inform them of the huge impact that a ruling against Gary and Shirley would have on the freedom of Christians across Europe. Losing these cases is unthinkable.”

Christian Concern has launched an appeal for funds as it looks to expand its legal team to support more Christians facing similar difficulties in the workplace.

On the web: www.christianconcern.com/donate