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Collier family
World News

Church cancels funeral over gay photo

New Hope Ministries in Denver said images of the couple kissing could not be shown during the service and asked the family of Vanessa Collier, 33, to remove them.

The funeral was due to be led by chaplain Gary Rolando, who is not affiliated with the Colorado church.

BBC Newsbeat quotes him as saying: "The church policy is that people with alternate lifestyles can have services, but there can be no pictures or videos of overt kissing or hugging.

"I understand both sides. The family wanted to honour Vanessa and the church has to answer to its board and the members who pay their bills."

It's reported 200 family and friends of Ms Collier, who died after accidently firing a gun she was cleaning, were asked to leave the church.

A memorial service had to be held at a funeral home nearby.

There have since been protests outside the church.

Premier has asked it for a response but is yet to hear back.

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