Last night, KDKA talk show host John McIntire interviewed a local presbyterian minister under investigation for joining two women in marriage.  Reverend Janet Edwards is facing disciplinary action for officiating at the June 2005 wedding of two lesbians.  A wedding your lesbian correspondent attended. 

John and Janet discussed the issue for nearly 45 minutes and took an array of telephone calls.  Some were typically homophobic, even hostile.  Janet responded with aplomb and compassionate rationality. 

But toward the end of the segment, a male caller asked why churches are regressive rather than progressive.  Janet gave a wonderful answer about history, values and classical tradition.  The caller listened attentively and then quietly told her that this was the first time he has ever heard a member of the clergy affirm homosexuality on the radio.  He thanked her and hung up.

Now both John and Lynn Cullen speak often and loudly in support of the gay community and gay issues.  And while we appreciate their love and their words, its even more powerful that they create a forum mfor the world to hear OUR voices.  As the caller implied, hearing it from a member of clergy MATTERED to him. 

So thank you to John and Lynn for creating that connection.  You both rock!