Minister Calls Pro-Equality Starbucks “Hater of God”

Claiming that Starbucks' support of marriage equality means it "hates God," ultraconservative minister Steven Andrew is calling on Christians to get their caffeine buzz elsewhere.

The Seattle-based coffee purveyor is among more than 100 companies that have pledged support for marriage equality in Washington State. The state Senate Wednesday approved a bill that would grant marriage rights to same-sex couples, and the House of Representatives is expected to follow suit soon.

In an online post published this week, Andrew, president of a California-based group called USA Christian Ministries, says all Christians and their churches should boycott Starbucks. "Christians are upset with Starbucks for turning against God, but we are glad to know that Starbucks doesn't pretend to be for Christians," he says in the post. He cites Bible verses that call homosexuality "an abomination" and those who oppose biblical tenets "haters of God."

He also claims gay people are only 1% to 2% of the population, says they have major "health concerns," and calls on them to "receive Jesus' forgiveness for sins."

"Starbucks can follow Satan if they want to," he says. "However, pastors are to help Christians. Are you on the Lord's side? Will you help the USA be blessed by God?"

Apparently, however, a majority of Washington residents, undoubtedly including many Christians, support marriage equality. Seattle TV station KING conducted an online poll (admittedly unscientific) in which only 12% of respondents said they would cease buying products from a company that supported same-sex marriage rights, but 51% said they would be more likely to patronize such a company. Another 33% said the company's stance would not affect their buying habits.