This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.

SACRAMENTO —

The Arden Christian Church in Sacramento has found itself part of a protest of a new Indiana law designed to protect religious freedoms. Critics claim the measure signed into law earlier this week is a vehicle for government sanctioned discrimination.

It takes a hands-off approach to forcing people to do anything against their religious beliefs. Some fear that means gays and lesbians won’t be served at restaurants or be turned away from other businesses.

Arden Christian is part of the Christian Church Disciples of Christ which has said it will cancel its 2017 national convention in protest.

The Sacramento congregation has gays and lesbians as members.

“If some part of us weren’t going to be welcomed, then none of us will be welcome,” said Senior Pastor Michael Hamm.

Hamm said his congregation consists of independent thinkers that range from conservatives to liberals. But all are welcome with opened arms.

“Even though we disagree, we agree to be together. We think that’s what Jesus would have wanted,” said Hamm.

Hamm has lived in Indiana and regrets that members who had planned to go to the convention will not be able to enjoy the famous Hoosier hospitality.

Despite amendments to the law that purport to prevent discrimination by businesses, there are examples of businesses who want to stand up for their rights under the new law.

Memories Pizza restaurant has religious artifacts throughout its dining room and while it will serve gays and lesbians, a catering order would be handled differently.

“We would have to say no. We’re not discriminating against anyone, that’s just our belief,” said restaurant worker Crystal O’Conner.

In fact, many religious leaders cited scripture in support of the religious freedom law.

The 625,000 member Christian Church Disciples of Christ supports religious freedom in principal. Hamm said he fears that that religious freedom has been taken out of the realm of private beliefs into business practice.

“We fear that it will be used in a way that was not so much about religious freedom but was about excluding folks including members of our own church,” said Hamm.