15 pastors in Waverly and near Waverly are trying to stop a planned Pride event in June, according to the Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier. Waverly’s Human Equity and Diversity Commission is planning a boat float on the Cedar River from the Waverly Area Veterans Post to Kohlmann Park on June 5th to celebrate LGBTQ Pride Month. Associate Pastor Josh Rouser of Grace Baptist Church read a letter written by the 15 pastors at a City Council meeting opposing the event and asking for the event not to be funded, promoted or endorsed officially by the city. Rouser said that the council, with their God-given authority, should not promote or endorse these morals and values. He went on to suggest the event may become pornographic. Councilmember Brent Jones countered Rouser’s point with the actions of Jesus from the Bible. Mayor Mark Anderson, a former Lutheran pastor, said that everyone should feel welcomed in Waverly and those that feel like they would be offended by people floating down the river do not need to come. Ten other area pastors denounced Rousers letter to the Courier reaffirming that God’s love is for all people, including those in the LGBTQ community.
