Wow, call me gobsmacked!
From Think Progress - BREAKING: Anti-Gay Pastor Removed From Inaugural Program
Louis Giglio, the anti-LGBT pastor who had been announced to perform the benediction at President Obama’s second inauguration, has been removed from the program, ABC News’s Jonathan Karl reported Thursday.
It was so disheartening to learn of his selection, this makes me feel sooooo much better.
Gladkov had a diary up yesterday about this selection if you would like to learn more. Obama picks yet another homophobe for benediction
Update on Think Progress article linked above:
CNN’s Eric Marrapodi is reporting that Giglio voluntarily withdrew from the program.
UPDATE from Think Progress:
Addie Whisenant of the Presidential Inaugural Committee said in a statement: We were not aware of Pastor Giglio’s past comments at the time of his selection and they don’t reflect our desire to celebrate the strength and diversity of our country at this Inaugural. Pastor Giglio was asked to deliver the benediction in large part for his leadership in combating human trafficking around the world. As we now work to select someone to deliver the benediction, we will ensure their beliefs reflect this administration’s vision of inclusion and acceptance for all Americans.