Their music has got me through some tough times but I’ve read some disturbing things online. Is it a sin to support them?
Our elder has some comforting advice – keep on listening!
Dear EWC
Hello, thank you so much for taking time to help me. I’m going through a lot right now. My parents are on the verge of divorce, my only dog’s health is failing (and I love her so much), my ‘best friend’ and I aren’t talking to each other, my brother (who is my rock) is moving out of the house, my dad is out of work right now, and I’m questioning my self-identity and I’m afraid my family may disown me. Through these past few months, I have turned to two things to lessen the hurt: my religion and a band called Pentatonix.
Tonight, I was looking at Pentatonix things online as usual and I came across an article telling their fans that they are satanic because they sing Christmas hymnals yet two of their members are openly gay and they support the LGBTQ+ community. The article went on to call their fans satanic if they continued to support them. The worst part is, there are multiple articles saying these things. Basically, I’m wondering what I should or need to do. Should I stop supporting the band even though they have helped me through so much and continue to do so? It’s not like I’m replacing my religion with this band or like I even hold the two at the same level, my religion is so important to me.
Am I committing a sin by listening to this band and buying their albums? I just don’t know what to do, the article is making me really upset. Again, thank you so much. I hope you can help me.
Alexandra replies
I’m so sorry that there are so many sad things happening in your life just now. You don’t say how old you are, but I’m guessing that you’re young – a teenager maybe? – and all these things must sometimes be overwhelming for you. I’m glad that you’ve found things to turn to that give you some comfort. I believe that having a strong faith and being able to express your feelings in prayer is always a great help – especially in troubled times.
As for the Pentatonix, if listening to them makes you ‘satanic’ or a sinner, then I guess I am too, because I love their music. Did you know their Christmas album sold over a million copies, and I’m pretty sure that a large number of them were bought by Christians? I looked for the articles you talked about and could not find them, but I did find some articles saying that their support of the LGBTQ community has helped many people – Christians included – to be more open-minded and accepting of family members who are gay. I personally think that’s a good thing, but then I believe that accepting people of all nationalities, colors, religions, sexual preferences, etc. is always a good thing.
I’m sure the people who write these articles are sincere in their conviction, but I think calling people satanic because they enjoy listening to music, which can be a soothing and calming experience, can only sow doubt and fear. You’ve found something that helps you (and lots of other people) feel better, and you sound as if you’re quite clear that it does not take the place of, or is in any way equal to, your religion – how can that be a bad thing?
Of course, this is only my opinion. I think this is something that you really should discuss with your parents or your pastor if you are really concerned. I hope you’ll write again if you want to talk more about some of these worrisome things you’re going through. We’re always here for you.
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