The Patriot Post® · Judge Rules Against Christian Florist's Liberty

Tony Perkins: “How will same-sex ‘marriage’ affect your home? A lot, if you don’t have one to come home to. That’s the stunning predicament Barronelle Stutzman finds herself in after a judge found the Christian florist guilty late [Wednesday]. … Benton County Superior Court Judge Alexander Ekstrom has officially made Stutzman’s house, assets, and life savings fair game in the fierce debate over religious liberty. In a lengthy 60-page opinion, the court argues that Barronelle’s ‘relationship with Jesus Christ’ doesn’t give her the freedom to turn down business – even if that business violates her personal beliefs. … When long-time customers approached Arlene’s Flowers about making centerpieces for their same-sex ‘wedding,’ Barronelle politely declined. But here’s the catch. Stutzman didn’t deny the men flowers, as the media wrongly suggests, but arrangements – which would have required Barronelle to use her personal artistry to express what she believes is a sinful message. … As for Barronelle, who had already launched a counter-suit against Washington State, her request is simple: ‘I just want the freedom to live and work faithfully and according to what God says about marriage without fear of punishment. Others have the freedom to say or not what they want to about marriage, and that’s all I’m asking for as well.’”