I agree with Antony – the perpetuation of boxes can further isolates and alienates us from one another, usually at times when we’re particularly in need of community. Yuck. At the same time, I’m concerned that an individualistic approach (being lovingly present & open to the people around us) can lull people into thinking there’s no need for institutional and systemic change. In other words, can we really expect the church’s leadership to be more diverse & representative if we don’t pay attention to - & closely scrutinize - categories like race, ethnicity, gender, country of origin, & sexual orientation? I think the big question is: Given that oppression already exists, how do we correct for it without reinforcing the very boxes that we used to justify discrimination in the first place? Obviously I don’t have the answer, but there might be something in the particular/universal approach some Christians take to understanding Jesus as Christ. Yes, it’s been horribly misused at times. But I do like the idea of learning & respecting the particular details of a life, while simultaneously trying to connect with the beautiful, human, holy elements of a person’s life.

Julie - Thank you. Since Antony shared with us the text that inspires him, I've been wondering what words I'll turn to during those difficult General Conference moments. I think I've just read them.