PRAYER AND A PARADE
Month of LGBTQ celebrations ends on weekend
The final weekend of Pride month celebrations will include a slate of community events, including a Pride service on Saturday morning and the colourful annual Pride Parade this afternoon.
The Pride Celebration Service begins at the Roxy Theatre at 10 a.m., with special guest Rev. Emily Carr. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
Carr said the service is an opportunity for Christians to express acceptance to the LGBTQ community, and for members of the LGBTQ community to express and perhaps reconnect with their faith.
“Everybody is welcome. It isn’t just for gay people, it’s for all people who would like to sing, gather together, eat muffins, drink coffee and have fun. The service is going to be laid back, short, and it’s a perfect place to celebrate Pride with your friends and family,” she said.
Carr, who identifies as lesbian, said her church, St. George’s Anglican, welcomes all people. However, she believes there’s still work to do to help all congregations be welcoming.
“Historically and also now, churches have been homophobic spaces where LGBTQ people have not been accepted for who they are,” she said.
“For me, love is the most important part of our faith, so I feel absolutely certain that God loves all people, regardless of their gender identity, sexuality, anything.”
After the service, the annual Pride Parade begins at 1 p.m. in Kiwanis Park. It ends at Third Avenue South and 19th Street. To see the entire parade route, visit saskatoonpride.ca.
Starting at 11 a.m., road restrictions will be in place along the entire route. Minor route changes will be in place for Saskatoon Transit, and temporary bus stops will be located on Third Avenue, north of 23rd Street, for routes 6, 60, and 65. Other downtown terminal bus stops will operate as normal.
Other Pride events happening this weekend include the main stage and market in River Landing from 3-7 p.m. on Saturday, and two 19+ events: Gurls! Ladies Night on Saturday night at the Drift & Vista Lounge, and a Detox Pool Party on Sunday afternoon at the Hilton Garden Inn, from noon to 5 p.m.