you're right, it is a pretty big L on their part, but their religion is making them feel this way. one of my friends is also very emotionally taxing so this is just the icing on the cake.
i've been friends with them for so long that if they found out they might tell my parents. it's complicated and they're really nice otherwise. i feel like it'd affect our relationship and other aspects of my life. i don't want to go through with that. all of my other friends are accepting but the two i'm referring to.
If you like her, go for it! If your friends don't approve, sucks to suck. If things get hard, just remember that there are others here that support you all the way :)