Pastor pulls out of Obama inauguration because of anti-gay sermon
January 10, 2013 11:53AM
Updated: January 10, 2013 11:54AM
The Rev. Louis Gigilio, who was to deliver the benediction at President Barack Obama's inauguration, pulled out Thursday after an anti-gay sermon created a firestorm the Presidential Inaugural Committee wanted to swiftly extinguish.
"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," said Addie Whisenant, a spokesperson for the committee.
"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," she said.
Giglio withdrew a day after his name was announced as part of the inauguration ceremonies.
