Top Court Eases California Curbs on At-Home Worship Services (1)

A divided U.S. Supreme Court eased California’s curbs on at-home religious services, adding to a string of orders that have freed worshipers from state and local restrictions designed to stem the Covid-19 pandemic.

In an unsigned 5-4 order issued late Friday night, the court cleared two Northern Californians to resume hosting weekly Bible studies and communal worship for eight to 12 people.

The majority said California was unconstitutionally discriminating against religion in parts of the state by limiting in-home gatherings, including worship services, to three households without imposing similar restrictions on commercial establishments.

“California treats some comparable secular activities more ...