Clay Aiken concert causes stir in Wichita church

This from today’s Wichita Eagle:Apparently, Central Christian Church, Wichita’s largest Protestant congregation, is facing some controversy over its decision to have former “American Idol” star Clay Aiken play a Christmas concert there.The National Enquirer reports this week that “the church received a lot of attacks” over the concert, and that the attacks were related to Aiken’s sexual orientation.A church leader called the story “just absolutely false.” According to the Eagle, a memo circulated to church leaders defended the concert, saying Aiken has spoken openly about his Christian beliefs, has a holiday CD with songs about Christ’s birth and has said in interviews that he is not gay.Also in the memo: “Keep in mind, this is an ‘outreach event.’ Many of Clay’s fans are Christians, however some may never darken the halls of a church, but for this one event.”The concert is Nov. 26, and tickets range from $30 to $40._ – Faith Files, which examines issues of faith, spirituality, morals and ethics, is updated by features/faith reporter Terry Rombeck. Have an idea for the blog? Contact Terry at trombeck@ljworld.com, or 832-7145._