My name is Julian; I joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1991. My experience within the church has been both a slow and methodical maturation process. I’ve seen the person in the mirror develop from a young boy to an adult with strengths and flaws alike. I came into the church being told to not take anyone’s word on the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. But when it comes to equality for all within the church, I’ve been told to follow church leadership without recourse. While I cannot summarily dismiss all the blessings and benefits the church has brought me, I cannot, and will not “fully” support a church leadership that automatically excludes qualified individuals to serve as Priesthood holders solely based on their gender.
My only hesitation for joining Ordain Women was simple; I no longer consider myself a Mormon. We are what we do, not just what we say. I believe our professed faiths tend to pull us apart more than unify us. No matter our race, gender or sexuality, we must find the common humanity within our respective differences. That humanity should be manifested by love, compassion and charity, which Paul describes in the feminine gender, as the pure love of Christ. If God loves us equally, then we must learn to see each other as equals. Ordaining women to the priesthood will only make the church stronger, not weaker.
And for those who may have dissenting voices–please dissent with love, compassion and kindness. Show all of us who want to ordain women, gays, lesbians and transgender individuals to the priesthood, that you can treat everyone like brothers and sisters.
I stand with women around the world who seek equality within their respective religions. I look forward to the day when my wife, daughter and son can share all the priesthood responsibilities. Let’s not be afraid of change, especially if it means progression. Ordain women to the priesthood.