I hear similar remarks from some segments of the Protestant community all the time. Granted, it's usually not in terms of employment, but I wouldn't be surprised that someone would say it if they opened their mouth before thinking about the potential legal consequences. That said, I think religious organizations should be able to hire and fire employees on whatever criteria they want. The thing I find odd is that a Catholic would want to work for another church in the first place.
You're probably right. It just always amazes me how stupid and/or insensitive people can be when given the opportunity!
...which brings us back to the reason the Salvation Army thought the guy was not a practising Christian.