One of the most encouraging aspects of the Australian theological scene is the work of the Australian Collaborators in Feminist Theologies.  Based at the University of Divinity, Melbourne, this vital network has considerably inspired and supported me in recent times and will, I hope, continue to grow in strength and influence.  From a transgender perspective, it is certainly a very positive community in which to be a part.  Personally I am already thankful to this project and its leaders to have an essay (entitled 'From Footballs to Matildas? - Gender Diverse People and Theological Game Change')  included in the forthcoming book  Contemporary Feminist Theologies: Power, Authority, Love - part of Routledge's 'Gender, Theology and Spirituality' series.  I am also pleased to share in the Horizons series of online conversations which the Collaborators run on a monthly basis.  This month, I am myself a focal point, chatting with Dr Cath McKinney about intersectionality, not least the challenges and opportunities of gender diverse people within feminist developments (link to event here).   Here below - and at this link - is a short reflection to stimulate thought and discussion, trying to move well beyond fruitless destructive controversies such as that recently stoked by J.K.Rowling.  Our times, and people of all gender identities, call for genuine depth of greater connection, contemplation, and creativity...

I've loved kaleidoscopes since I was a child.  The first time I looked into one I felt my eyes were opened to so many new possibilities.  For, in the days before computers and digital design, they were the nearest thing to re-shaping and re-colouring a child's world.  Telescopes, and microscopes, could be fun too, but kaleidoscopes were the real magic. After all, a telescope, or microscope, can help focus, examination and perspective, but a kaleidoscope opens up the imagination.  Whereas a telescope, or microscope, is essentially binary, and, at best,  three dimensional, a kaleidoscope is full of changing elements.  A telescope, or microscope, can indeed also disclose amazing aspects of the heavens or the tiniest details of life. A kaleidoscope however can open up the soul, nurturing engaged wonder in the interaction of eye and hand, and the power of human creation in the play of perception and desire,  In other words, In its glistening, altering patterns and creative transitions, it can become an icon of spirituality, constantly re-defining identity.   It is, if you like, a symbol and means of transfiguration.  For a little child like me, knowing I was different, it certainly helped me sense that the world could be much more diverse and colourful than the bounds of simplistic explanation offered.  It also encouraged me to realise that, as with a kaleidoscope, I might come to change the patterns of my world, and perhaps even - who knows how - my own body into a more glorious expression...

I am writing as a member of a group of people who are often hidden and ignored in conversations about the relationship between LGBTI+ rights and ‘religious freedom’.  For I am an openly transgender female Anglican priest, in duly regarded paid and active service in my religious community.  Like other LGBTI+ people I experience the same needs for freedom and opportunity to love and serve.  Yet I, and others like me (some whom have to hide publicly), also have to cope with being caught in the crossfire between certain types of LGBTI+ activism and reactionary Christian calls for greater ‘religious protection’.  Often this debate is conducted without any reference to people like myself and measures are proposed which do not help our freedom or livelihoods.  In writing, it is therefore my hope that the current Religious Freedom Review may pay proper attention to us and ensure that nothing is proposed which makes our often marginalised situation more problematic...

"So how do you cope with your enemies?', asked my spiritual director recently.  I laughed, with a mixture of emotions. 'Well, I certainly realise I have plenty now', I replied!  For you don't have to be paranoid to recognise when some people are out to get you.  It is particularly sad however when they are part of your own faith tradition...