For a prayer at one of his pre-inauguration events at the Lincoln Memorial, President-elect Barack Obama has selected the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church. Obama aides said that Bishop V. Gene Robinson, who advised Obama on gay rights issues during his campaign, will deliver the invocation two days before the incoming President’s swearing-in ceremony.

Obama’s choice of Robinson comes after widespread criticism by gay-rights groups, against his decision to have evangelist Rick Warren deliver the invocation at his January 20 inauguration. Even though Robinson is hurt by Obama’s selection of Warren, he continues to believe that Obama will be a very compassionate president for the cause of gay rights.

According to Linda Douglass, the Presidential Inaugural Committee spokeswoman, the selection of Bishop Robinson – who, in Douglass’ words, “was selected on his own merit because he is a man who preaches tolerance and inclusivity” - reflects Obama’s vow of variety throughout the historic inaugural celebrations.

Robinson himself put forth his opinion thus: “The fact Rick Warren and I are each giving invocations during inauguration festivities just shows that the new president means to include all Americans.”

The other clergy members who would take part in the inaugural events are – the Rev. Joseph Lowery, the renowned civil rights leader; and the Rev. Sharon Watkins, the first woman to deliver a sermon at the National Prayer Service.

No wonder then that the inaugural committee says Obama’s inaugural service will celebrate the country’s “diversity of faith!”