OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — A pair of Christian diners stiffed their 20-year-old server at Carraba’s Italian restaurant in Overland Park, Kansas, on the grounds that his homosexuality is “an affront to God.”
KCTV reports that the server, who asked that his name not be identified, went to the table after the group of customers left and, instead of a tip, found this spiteful message from the diners written on the back of the check:
“Thank you for your service, it was excellent. That being said, we cannot in good conscience tip you, for your homosexual lifestyle is an affront to GOD.
“Fags do not share in the wealth of GOD, and you will not share in ours. We hope you will see the tip your fag choices made you lose out on, and plan accordingly. It is never too late for GOD’s love, but none shall be spared for fags. May GOD have mercy on you.”
The anti-gay message has galvanized support for the server on social media with a campaign underway to flood the restaurant on Friday evening.
Dr. Marvin Baker, a retired pastor who runs a Gay Christian Fellowship ministry, had lunch at the restaurant on Thursday with his partner, and asked to be seated in the server’s section.
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“I was angry. I said this is not Christian as I know it,” Baker said.
Coincidentally, the hostess who led them to their seats was the server’s mother.
“I said, ‘We are here to meet your celebrity. The one who was mistreated.’ She said, ‘That’s my son. Would you like a table or booth?’ I said, ‘Wherever he’s serving,'” Baker explained.
Watch a report from KCTV in Kansas City:
The server has responded to the incident, saying “The offers to help pay me back are much appreciated, but not at all needed. I’d prefer to let my work ethic and my service do the talking, nothing else.”