Disability, Faith, and the Church: Inclusion and Accommodation in Contemporary Congregations - Hardcover

Ph.D., Courtney Wilder

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1440838844 ISBN 13: 9781440838842

Publisher: Praeger, 2016

Synopsis

Including both theoretical discussions and practical information for congregational use or pastoral use, this rich, accessible book explores biblical text, historical and theological issues of disability, and examples of successful ministry by people with disabilities.

· Engages a wide range of theological traditions and writings on disability within the Christian tradition

· Provides disability-focused readings of biblical texts relevant to disability studies, both as ecclesial resources and for classroom use

· Profiles individuals who are engaged in active ministry and church leadership while living with disabilities

· Includes straightforward analysis of complicated social issues like disability and reproductive rights

About this title

About the Author:

Courtney Wilder, PhD, is professor of religion at Midland University, Fremont, NE.

Review:

"Dr. Courtney Wilder's accessible and engaging new book is a must-read for theology students, pastors, church members, disability activists, and anyone who seeks a more just and compassionate world and community. This informative book unmasks ableism, deconstructs traditional notions of 'inclusion,' challenges presumptions and stereotypes about people with disabilities, identifies inspiring best practices, and provides liberating, concrete strategies and resources for congregations seeking disability justice. I highly recommend it." (Dr. Jacqueline Bussie, Professor of Religion & Director of the Forum on Faith and Life, Concordia College)

"This thoughtful volume not only serves as a useful introduction to disability in religious contexts but also carefully takes on many of the significant and persistent issues in the field today. Rather than offering simplistic interpretations or easy answers, Wilder's nuanced work invites reflection and engagement with these important issues, with each chapter naming key challenges and dilemmas, identifying resources and dialogue partners, presenting visions to which we might aspire, and highlighting questions for further reflection and conversation. This book covers significant ground and will be relevant to a wide audience―in church, academy, and beyond―and I highly recommend it to those who are new to this work as well as to those who already have significant experience with disability and religion." (Deborah Beth Creamer, Director of Accreditation, Association of Theological Schools)

"Those of us with disabilities along with those who are allegedly abled both need to be reminded that we are created in God's image, that the message of salvation is for us, and that the congregation is our healing home. With empathy, sensitivity, and advocacy, Courtney Wilder draws to our attention this all too frequently neglected concern." (Ted Peters, Emeritus Professor of Systematic Theology and Ethics at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary and California Lutheran University)

About this edition

• Publisher: Praeger
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 1440838844
• ISBN 13: 9781440838842
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 176