"We applaud the Diocese of Minnesota and the Diocese of Los Angeles for nominating openly gay and lesbian priests as part of a diverse, highly qualified slate of candidates," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "The Episcopal church is modeling for denominations and religions across the country how our faiths can be open and inclusive of all people. We are deeply grateful to the painstaking work of LGBT Episcopalian affinity and advocacy group, Integrity, for making this day possible. As our Religion Council member and President of Integrity, Rev. Susan Russell, writes "the 'season of fasting' at the expense of the vocations of gays and lesbians in the Episcopal Church is at an end."

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.