A Lesson in Values

Been looking to find the text of Bp. Robinson's remarks at today's concert, but so far no luck, even on Google. But I did find this comment by Evan Wolfson, director of Freedom to Marry. I'll keep looking for Robinson's words and post them here when they turn up.

President-elect Obama's invitation to Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson to kick off the Inauguration events with an invocation at the Lincoln Memorial is a powerful statement in support of gay people's common humanity and the need to end their exclusion from American law and life. While most likely intending the invitation as a way of addressing the pain and disappointment caused by his selection of Rick Warren, an anti-gay crusader, to pray at the Inaugural, President-elect Obama could have chosen another, less distinctive member of the clergy committed to the values of equality and inclusion he favors and Rick Warren rejects. But instead, President-elect Obama chose Bishop Robinson.

An openly gay man joined in civil union with his life-partner, a strong advocate of the freedom to marry, and a beloved moral hero to millions, including those who know him best, Bishop Robinson is also a world-historical figure. His ministry is at the center of the Episcopal Church's embrace of gay people and stand for inclusion against division in the U.S. and throughout the world. President-elect Obama has sent a strong signal that will resonate around the world: America's inauguration of its new president is commenced and blessed by a welcomed and courageous gay man.

At the same time, signals and statements, invitations and Inaugurations are not as important as actual changes in law and society. The true test of President-elect Obama's leadership and administration will come as he moves to fulfill the promises he has made, including his commitment to secure equality under law for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans alongside our non-gay brothers and sisters. The President-elect -- and all of us -- would do well to heed not just Bishop Robinson's invocation on January 18, but his moral witness in his life, to those he inspires, and to his partner and family. Central to this incandescent example is Bishop Robinson's pastoral and personal support for the freedom to marry, true equality under law and in love.

When he stands before Abraham Lincoln's statue to mark a new presidency, Bishop Robinson will provide President-elect Obama, and the nation and world, a lesson in values to light the way forward. Prayer must then be matched by policy.

"The tree is known by his fruit."