Singer Josh Ritter Protests Pa. College Anti-Gay Policy
GRANTHAM, Pa. (AP/KDKA) - Singer-songwriter Josh Ritter says he won't return to play a central Pennsylvania Christian college unless it changes its policy against "homosexual behavior."
Ritter made the announcement on Facebook hours after playing a concert Friday night at Messiah College in Grantham, Pa., southwest of Harrisburg.
Messiah spokeswoman Beth Lorow says the administration is disappointed that Ritter's speaking in favor of openness and tolerance but isn't applying those principles to their religious freedoms.
Lorow says Ritter's comments on the topic from the student union stage weren't as harsh as his Facebook posting.
Messiah students and staff have to sign a "community covenant" promising to avoid homosexual behavior, as well as premarital sex.
Ritter says he's donating his fee to an organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services.
Ritter is scheduled to perform in Pittsburgh May 20th at the Byham Theater.
(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
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