Maria Gwyn McDowell

Contemporary Eastern Orthodox discussion of sexuality and embodiment generally assumes a static, binary gendered essentialism. Opponents of female ordination, same-sex relationships, and the legitimacy of transgender persons generally define appropriate roles and relationships according to binary essentialism.

I was maybe five, sitting with the older kids on the altar steps watching [a priest] describe his vestments. The cuff cords were so long! Each item meant something. I remember wanting to understand.