NHL backs Flyers’ Ivan Provorov decision to skip team’s Pride festivities

“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 NKJV

"The NHL released a statement Wednesday backing Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov over his decision to skip out on Tuesday night’s pregame warmups where players wore Pride-them[ed] jerseys, citing his religious beliefs.

The 26-year-old veteran, who is Russian Orthodox, explained to the media following the game that he elected not to participate in Tuesday’s warmups in order to “stay true” to himself and his religion. ...

After facing fierce backlash online, the NHL issued a statement seemingly backing Provorov’s decision, while adding that it will “continue to encourage their voices and perspectives on social and cultural issues.”

“Hockey is for Everyone is the umbrella initiative under which the League encourages Clubs to celebrate the diversity that exists in their respective markets, and to work to achieve more welcoming and inclusive environments for all fans,” the statement read.

“Clubs decide whom to celebrate, when and how — with League counsel and support. Players are free to decide which initiatives to support, and we continue to encourage their voices and perspectives on social and cultural issues.” ...

Head coach John Tortorella said after the game that he did not consider benching Provorov.

- rest at NHL backs Flyers’ Ivan Provorov decision to skip team’s Pride festivities – WGMD

 

I don't think the players should be on the field or the ice or the court when the national anthem is being played anyway. For that matter I don't see any reason to play the national anthem before a sporting event, unless it is a sporting event between countries, such as the FIFA Men's and Women's World Cup competitions. The players are there to participate in a sporting event and the fans are there to watch a sporting event, not to engage in a rah-rah devotion to country rally.

 

Mr. Provorov may be devoted to his religion. Okay. Thankfully, God has regenerated me and I am devoted to Christ, not to a religion. So if I was in such a situation, I hope that is what I would say, that I am staying true to Christ.