Restaurant told to end 15 per cent discount for people who 'pray' before eating

Facebook / Z88.3

Discount: A receipt showing 15% off a meal

A restaurant offering customers a discount if they pray before eating has been forced to end its controversial deal.
Customers posted a receipt on Facebook showing 15% off at Mary's Gourmet Diner due to 'praying in public' and the picture went viral sparking a backlash to the U.S. chain.
The image of the receipt was posted by a Florida radio station who's listeners were shocked when they saw the bill reduction for praying.
It's said the owner Mary Haglund had used the scheme for more than four years to encourage visitors to be thankful for their food.
The picture sparked debate after it was liked and shared by thousands on the social networking site.
Critics questioned whether or not the discount was fair on non-religious customers.

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Debate: Thousands argued over whether the offer was morally justified

In an interview Ms Haglund said: "I never asked anyone who they were praying to - that would be silly. I just recognised it as an act of gratitude."
However since the image appeared all over the globe, The Freedom From Religion Foundation wrote a letter of complaint to the restaurant owner.
It appeared the discount may have been a violation of the Civil Rights Act.
Ms Haglund responded by writing on the restaurant's Facebook page.
The post in full:
"There's a lot of craziness going o in regard to the 15% discount. I will not respond to all the posts. I will say that it is not a 'policy', it's a gift we give at random to customers who take a moment before their meal.
"This could be prayer or just a moment to breathe and push the busyness of the world away. Who you talk to or meditate on etc. is your business. I have lived in a 3rd world country, there are people starving. We live in a country with an abundance of beautiful food.
"I NEVER take that for granted. It's good for everyone!!!! Thanks to my local community for your support...you know who I am. As for all the people posting negative comments about me & my restaurant who have never met me or been to the restaurant, thanks for sharing, it's your right to speak out, just as it is mine. Peace, love & happy eating!!!!"