A National Hockey League goalie stood tall for his Christian values on Saturday and refused to wear a so-called “pride” jersey before the team’s Saturday home game.
NHL teams have held such nights throughout the season, with players wearing rainbow jerseys or other designs to show support for the LGBT movement.
San Jose goalie James Reimer said that crossed a line and issued a statement the Sharks posted on social media.
“For all 13 years of my NHL career, I have been a Christian – not just in title, but in how I choose to live my life daily. I have a personal faith in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins and, in response, asks me to love everyone and follow Him,” he said.
A statement from Goaltender, James Reimer: pic.twitter.com/GwhWxhbmb4
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) March 18, 2023
“I have no hate in my heart for anyone, and I have always strived to treat everyone that I encounter with respect and kindness. In this specific instance, I am choosing not to endorse something that is counter to my personal convictions which are based on the Bible, the highest authority in my life,” the statement said.
“I strongly believe that every person has value and worth, and the LGBTQIA+ community, like all others, should be welcomed in all aspects of the game of hockey,” he statement said.
In a social media post from the Athletic quoting Reimer’s comments to the media, Reimer outlined his thought process.
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