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When Michael Lampiris turned down a potential gig hosting a local birthday party, the co-owner of Ultrasound Deejays became the latest in a line of Christian business owners caught between their own guiding principles and laws ostensibly designed to curb discrimination.
The Gaithersburg, Md., business, which provides DJ services through an extensive network of professionals, prominently states in its policy that it follows “biblical morality,” which means no participation in “any event involving homosexual celebration or activity.”
When it became apparent that a recent request was for the ex-partner – and current roommate – of a local gay man now living with his current partner, Lampiris knew the event would constitute a compromise of his values.
“I just said, ‘We won’t be able to do it. We’re a Christian organization and it would go against our faith. I’m sorry,’” he recalled.
As for an existing Maryland law prohibiting discrimination against gays, Lampiris said he is not familiar with it. He noted that his business would turn down any event its owners consider immoral. In fact, the aforementioned company policy also states Ultrasound Deejays will not provide services for any party including psychics, magicians, provocative dance, or a number of other activities deemed unbiblical.
Nevertheless, Tom Tsakounis has since filed a complaint with the Montgomery County Human Rights Commission, alleging Lampiris discriminated against gay patrons.
Though Lampiris is not expecting a bitter legal battle, he said he is determined to “make a stand if the good Lord is willing,” noting that Christians “ought to obey God rather than men.”
Should Christian business owners be forced to violate their principles in catering to homosexuals? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
This post originally appeared on Western Journalism – Equipping You With The Truth
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