Sacred vs. secular: Don't push religion on employees.

The "culture war" over religion's role in the workplace is beginning to affect how HR professionals must balance the rights of company leaders versus employees.

On one side: Owners and leaders whose beliefs are central to their business practices and want workers to join in. On the other: Employees who say religion is none of their bosses' business.

The U.S Department of Justice has said it will defend the rights of employers to apply their religious convictions to their workplaces (within reason).

On the other hand, the EEOC is aggressively suing companies that punish workers who reject their religious activities.

Example: An Oregon construction company required employees to attend weekly Bible study (and paid for the time). When...