EDMONTON – In a vibrant show of love and solidarity, more than 20 Anglicans marched in the Edmonton Pride Parade in August. Organized by Queerly Beloved, a working group of the Diocese of Edmonton’s social justice committee, the contingent marked the first official Anglican presence at the parade since its inception in 1991. They marched under banners reading “Proud Anglicans,” “Queerly Beloved,” and “Anglican Diocese of Edmonton.”
Decked out in rainbow colours and carrying placards and flags, the Anglican contingent, which included Bishop Stephen London, brought both celebration and protest to the streets. “It was affirming and energizing to be greeted by thousands of people waving flags and shouting encouragement,” said the Rev. Mark Vigrass, deacon at St. George, Edmonton. “To walk with and among people who accepted and affirmed me as a beloved queer child of God – and extended that affirmation to others – was deeply moving.”
The Rev. Jordan Giggey, rector of St. Timothy, Edmonton, described the experience as “living out a part of my calling to the priesthood,” and a tangible step toward reconciliation with the 2SLGBTQ+ community. “Seeing so many denominations gathered to remind us in the queer community that we too are beloved of God was a powerful testament to the gospel at work in our city and our diocese,” he said. Though the walk lasted only 30 minutes, Rev. Giggey believed its emotional impact “will last for years to come.”
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