Even so, Christ taught the importance of respect and dignity of "all persons as people." And the church is very clear that it is never right to commit acts of violence against anyone, regardless of their moral stand.

"So a phenomenon we see here in San Francisco is gay bashing and that's very wrong and despicable. Our call — and it's not always easy — is to proclaim what we know that has been revealed to us as the truth, and at the same time, having compassion for the person."

He said he doesn't believe by exhibiting compassion "that I'm condoning the activity."

As he anticipates the role of shepherd, he'll draw on more than 30 years in ministry as a priest and then an auxiliary bishop under four different archbishops in San Francisco. His associates believe it was the perfect training ground for developing a deep understanding of doctrine, coupled with a deep love for people from all walks of life.

Whether it has been helping victims of clergy sexual abuse, or ministering to their abusers, friends say he's well-practiced at diplomacy — a trait his Utah flock will no doubt rely upon.

He knows when he takes a stand, "some will agree and some will not, but I'm always open to dialogue."

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E-mail: carrie@desnews.com