According to the New York Times (April 22), a Seattle-area pastor told Microsoft he would “give them something to be afraid of Christians about” if they did not withdraw their support for a state bill that would have barred discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. He also told them they should fire employees who testified for the bill on the legislative hearings. Microsoft has withdrawn its support, saying publicly that the minister’s threats had not influenced their decision. But they have a long-standing company policy of non-discrimination and of giving full benefits to partners of gay and lesbian employees.

Regardless of our individual views of homosexual practice, or of our support or opposition to bills opposing gay marriage (or even gay “rights”), this story is disturbing. The use of language designed to elicit fear of Christians and their power in society and government does not serve anyone well. It does not fit with the spirit of Jesus’ teachings and life. How can that be called “Christian”?

This entry was posted on Saturday, April 23rd, 2005 at 10:32 am and is filed under Safe Place Blog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.