What was the most helpful feedback you received in the peer review workshops?

The most useful feedback was from Rachel who told me I was doing too much research and summary instead of analysis.  This was important because I have a tendency to focus too much on the background instead of trying to dive into the topic. I feel like this was an issue with my last essay, so I’m really working on improving myself in that regard.

What were the most interesting discoveries you made as you researched your topic? 

I loved learning more about all the different landmarks that culminated in the LGBTQ+ community gaining their rights.  Even though I didn’t include this in my paper, it was interesting how the first lesbian minister was appointed in the Episcopal church in 1977.  It was super controversial at the time, but we’ve gotten to a point today where queer individuals are welcomed to be in church leadership for some denominations.

What is the significance of the paradigm shift you explored? In other words, what do you feel is the most important point for your reader to take away from your paper?  

The most important point is that we should be open to interacting with people different from us and that it’s important to question authority.  In the past, LGBTQ+ people were dehumanized by both scientific figures and the Church for simply existing.  A lot of this fear stemmed from society’s lack of understanding about queer people and their issues.

How has this project helped you develop as a writer? 

I think I’m learning to get better with analyzing instead of just summarizing what I research.  Summary is easy, but it takes skill to pick apart a topic and uncover its implications.