American Idol contestant Chris Sligh is at the centre of a major controvery that has broken out in his home town of Charlotte, over his decision to sing 'un-religious' songs despite the fact that he is a devout Christian.  

Sligh is a 28-year old son of missionaries, and attended the fundamentalist Bob Jones University.

A spokesman for the institution said "We really are somewhat disappointed with the direction he has gone musically"

Even Chris'  vocal coach has stepped into the argument, questioning: "Is he going to stand strong by his true Christian morals? Christianity is a lifestyle...and there are things in your life that you do need to stand for."

"He's not going to back away from the fact that he's a Christian," said Chris Surratt, pastor of Seacoast Church, in Chris' defense.

Despite the trouble Chris Sligh is still in the contest, having sung an "unemotional" version of 'Endless Love' last week. That's Simon Cowell's description of course...