It is a little bit like joining the army and becoming a deserter..........you have the freedom to do that but you know there are consequences.
Actually, I think it's a bit more like joining the army and being gay...or then discovering you're gay......the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy and the homophobic, hostile environment it engenders. It is wrong, and it wreaks unnecessary havoc for the lives of members and close associates/ loved ones in both organizations.
I have to agree with miscoup on this one. I DO consider it religious persecution.