Together, we celebrate the divine within each of us. It is tragically believed by some gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people that on the event of their coming-out they lose all rights to consider themselves people of faith, spiritual and capable of holiness.  As an InterFaith community we come together from many diverse faiths and cultures, to proclaim loudly and proudly that such is not the case!  Each of us is a being of love, created as we are.   - Maureen Duffy-Boose, President Emeritus, Covenant Of Unitarian Universalist Pagans (CUUPS)

"The theme of the service is: "Live. Love. Pray." said Russ Baker-Gorringe, chair of the Utah Pride Interfaith Coalition.  "We represent a diverse group, coming together from different faith communities.  We have more in common than we have differences.  We all honor the divine within all of us.  In other words, gay people, all LGBT/Q people, are worthy of holiness."  Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker will honor LGBT people of faith during the service, and welcome them to the city. 

The Utah Pride Interfaith Coalition is a resource whose intent is to afford resources and opportunities for GLBTIQ people to express and celebrate their spirituality, regardless of their personal faith path. Our Miission statement reads:

"Together, we celebrate the divine within each of us. It is tragically believed by some gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people that on the event of their coming-out they lose all rights to consider themselves people of faith, spiritual and capable of holiness.  As an InterFaith community we come together from many diverse faiths and cultures, to proclaim loudly and proudly that such is not the case!  Each of us is a being of love, created as we are."  The Interfaith Coalition is grateful to Maureen Duffy-Boose, President Emeritus, Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans, for penning the group’s mission statement. 

"We are seeing a movement among GLBTIQ people.  Many, are reclaiming their faith," said Baker-Gorringe.  "Many of our people have risen above the spiritual abuse experienced in the past, and with many groups embracing and honoring GLBTIQ people, and a growing number of faith communities that honor loving, committed, same-sex relationships, we are seeing many in the queer community reclaiming their faith." .

On Sunday morning, June 5, 2011, at the Pride Parade, over 300 volunteers from the Utah Pride Interfaith community will carry the huge Pride Rainbow Flag in the parade.  The flag is a full city block long, and the most photographed entry in the parade.  Members of various congregations  and groups who are part of the Utah Pride Interfaith Coalition will march, clergy in vestments and congregation banners displayed, representing the active presence of faith communities in the lives of GLBTIQ people.

Further information about the Utah Pride Interfaith Service as well as a program of activities will be posted on this page closer to the event. For more information on how you may participate, you may contact Russ and Joe Baker-Gorringe at russgorringe@yahoo.com , or telephone 801-259-3800.