Anglicans March with Pride - and Purpose

In a vibrant show of love and solidarity, over twenty Anglicans marched in the 2025 Edmonton Pride Parade on Saturday, August 23^rd. Organized by Queerly Beloved, a working group under the diocesan Social Justice Committee, the contingent marked the first official Anglican presence at the parade since its inception in 1991. Marching under banners reading “Proud Anglicans,” “Queerly Beloved,” and “Anglican Diocese of Edmonton,” their participation reflected a clear commitment to affirming that 2SLGBTQ+ people are truly beloved of God.

Decked out in rainbow colours and carrying placards and flags, the Anglican contingent 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,” the Reverend Mark Vigrass, deacon at St. George’s, Edmonton, shared. “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 Reverend Jordan Giggey, rector at St. Timothy’s, 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 noted. Though the walk lasted only 30 minutes, Rev. Giggey believes its emotional impact “will last for years to come.”

Carly Murphy, a member of Lodgepole Communitas, Edmonton, reflected on the deeper meaning of their participation. “There have been mornings when I’ve longed for the quiet comfort of staying under the covers,” they admitted, “but something inside me called me to rise, to march, to stand tall and be there for my community.” For Carly, the parade is a sacred act of solidarity—“a triumph of radical love and authenticity.” Yet they also acknowledged the bittersweet nature of Pride: “I carry a whisper of guilt… because the concept of pride is necessary in a world so steeped in inequality and injustice.”

Rob Betty, a parishioner at St. John the Evangelist, Edmonton, and first-time Pride participant, described the event as “a wonderful celebration” and “a powerful moment of unity.” Initially unsure of what to expect, Betty was struck by the warmth of the crowd and the recognition shown to the Anglican contingent. “We were respected for showing our support of and solidarity with the Queer community,” he commented. His preference now is to refer to the wider “Queer family” since “there was definitely a sense of unity that rose to the level of family.”

The Anglican presence at Edmonton’s Pride Parade was more than symbolic—it was a heartfelt declaration of inclusion, reconciliation, and radical love. For many, it marked a turning point in how their beloved Anglican community shows up for their queer siblings, not just in words, but in joyful, public witness.

- the Rev. Mark Vigrass