BY NATASHA BARSOTTI – In the midst of an apparent epidemic of homophobic pronouncements from various American evangelical pulpits, 300 Mormons decided to go against the anti-gay grain. They stepped out in their Sunday best for Utah Pride in support of the state’s queer community. 
According to The Salt Lake Tribune, the group, called Mormons Building Bridges, said they marched to convey a message of love, which they view as compatible with their faith.
Formed by Erika Munson, a mother of five, the group reduced several parade onlookers — who waved, clapped and cheered them on — to tears. Munson told the Tribune that she started Mormons Building Bridges to show her support for the queer community and to encourage others in her faith to follow suit.
Group member Emily Vandyke walked the parade route with a sign bearing the words of a Latter Day Saints children’s song: “I’ll walk with you, I’ll talk with you. That’s how I’ll show my love for you.”
A refreshing sound and sight in light of the recent release of a more than troubling video of a three-year-old being cheered on as he sang, “Ain’t no homos gonna make it to heaven” in an Indiana church.
Landing image source: sltrib.com
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