At a time when identity politics are often perceived as a divisive factor, both in society and in religious communities, this presentation explores what Christianity has to offer on issues of inclusivity. Drawing on the Scriptures, where Jesus opens up paths of encounter with socially marginalised people (cf. John 4; Luke 19), we suggest that hospitality is a deeply Christian practice. Hospitality offers a new way of thinking about how all people can live with dignity and integrity in Christ. The workshop will share experiences showing the relationship between inclusivity and hospitality, based on the welcoming of queer Christians and others in Groningen (Netherlands) and Paris (France).
Speakers
Jildou de Jong
Jildou de Jong holds a master's degree in social work and is a minister serving the queer community in the Mennonite Church in Groningen (Netherlands).
Paul Cukierman
A volunteer at Dorothy Café (Paris), Paul Cukierman is co-founder of the queer Christian group "Friends of Dorothy".