The clothing brand Grindstore designed the jumper—featuring a rainbow—to represent the LGBT+ community. Their products are sold on Debenhams’ website through Pertemba Global. They also include other Christian-themed items, including ‘Ah-men’ cards and a ‘Bad Religion’ T-shirt portraying Jesus on a motorbike.

Christians across the UK expressed their dismay and called the merchandise disrespectful. Andrea Williams, CEO of Christian Concern suggested to boycott the manufacturer and demanded an apology: “Disgraceful that Debenhams were selling this product. A full public apology must follow. The company producing these products should be boycotted.”

Pastor Rikki Doolan from Spirit Embassy church followed in denouncing Debenhams on social media: “What makes you think @Debenhams that it is OK to insult the Christian faith in such a disgusting way as this? Do you think it’s right to freely mock our faith and God like this? We as British Christians will not tolerate this.”

Former Tory MP Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg pointed out that Islam would not have been mocked the same way. 

In response, Debenhams released a statement: “We are aware that a product line featured on our marketplace has raised some questions. In line with our policies, we are reviewing the products and have temporarily paused them while we investigate”. 

Grindstore stated: “As a small business we are always open to listening to feedback. We have now removed the highlighted products, our apologies…the intention was not to offend or insult anyone.”

Source: https://premierchristian.news