Employer Says All Employees Must Sign An Updated Statement Of Faith Because Of Title Vii, Section 702. Is That Actually Required By Law?

I work for a Christian nonprofit that provides social services. The organization recently announced that all employees will have to sign an updated Statement of Faith by June 2027. The statement includes specific beliefs about same-sex marriage and abortion.

When explaining the change, the organization said it was a legal requirement related to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, specifically Section 702.

My understanding is that Section 702 allows religious organizations to make certain employment decisions based on religion. I always thought this was mainly intended to protect churches and other religious institutions when hiring pastors, rabbis, and other religious leaders, but I've since learned that it can also apply to employees in nonreligious roles.

I'm trying to understand a few things:

Does Section 702 actually require religious organizations to have all employees sign a Statement of Faith, or does it simply allow them to make employment decisions based on religion?

Can a religious nonprofit require employees in roles unrelated to ministry, such as analysts or administrative staff, to personally affirm specific religious beliefs as a condition of employment?

Is there a legal difference between following an organization's policies and being required to personally agree with its religious beliefs?

If an employee can't honestly sign the statement because it conflicts with their personal beliefs, what are their legal options?

Are there any North Carolina laws or court decisions that might be relevant?

I'm not looking to debate anyone's religious beliefs. I just want to understand whether the organization is legally required to do this or whether it's a policy the organization has chosen to implement under the religious exemption.

I'd appreciate any insight, especially from employment attorneys or people familiar with this area of law.

Location: North Carolina, USA