Dear xzins,
I'm not sure that it's as much of a dilemma as the article makes out.
The judgment here is way out of whack.
I'm not sure the principle is.
Our Catholic parish is liable for its own torts, and assumes responsibility for church groups directly tied to it. That's how it goes. If the parish sponsored an activity, and a volunteer caused injury to someone in the course of the activity, the parish would be liable for any legitimate legal tort. That's how it is.
Here, the only issue that was in question was whether the Legion of Mary was an independent organization, separate of the parish, or came under the umbrella of the local parish. That's a tougher question.
Do you propose that religious organizations be immune to civil liability?
sitetest
There is a place for some kind of liability, but with awards being totally out of whack, then there's definitely a place for churches to protect themselves beyond insurance.
Incorporating, contracting, and renting are all ways to do that which make a lot of sense.