Teens scolded for cafe chat about religion

Two teenagers having a religious discussion in a Picton cafe were shocked when they were scolded by a member of the public.

The woman, who was also dining in the cafe, told them their discussion wasn’t appropriate and they should consider other people’s ‘‘comfort zones’’.

Anna Amos, 17, who is home schooled in Waikawa, said she and a friend had been discussing the differences between their religion. Anna is non-catholic Christian and her friend is Catholic. They discussed points of difference such as views on the Virgin Mary, the ways in which they viewed sin, priests and confession. They talked for about 30 minutes before a woman approached their table and said the discussion wasn’t appropriate.

The cafe manager said no-one was aware an incident had occurred. Stuff has decided not to name the cafe.

Anna’s mother, Shirleyanne, said she was concerned someone felt they could censure a ‘‘private and respectful chat over coffee’’ between two young people.

‘‘They weren’t loud, swearing or arguing. What next? A list of rules about what can or cannot be discussed in public? So much for freedom of speech.’’

Anna said their ‘‘deep’’ discussion was mostly around ‘‘subtle’’ or ‘‘theological’’ differences in their religions.

Her friend responded to the woman. ‘‘He was sort of hurt by the fact that she had come over.

‘‘We said that we were sorry if she didn’t like it.

‘‘We did tell her at the time that we didn’t feel that it was that much of a problem.’’