Journal of the Christian Institute on Disability

One of the newest additions in the field of scholarly research and integration between special education, theology, and ministry is the Journal of the Christian Institute of Disability.  I received  my copy of the Fall/Winter 2013 edition in the mail yesterday. It is the first time I've seen my words in print, as I was humbly asked to write an expanded review of Saul Olyan's work Disability in the Hebrew Bible.

To subscribe to the journal or to download select articles, visit JCID 

http://www.joniandfriends.org/jcid/

Friendship Ministries - Executive Director Needed

I have been involved with Friendship Ministries for nearly a decade now and currently serve on the executive board.  With a reach onto four continents and several languages, it is one of the world's largest Christian disability resourcing ministries.

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Friendship Ministries and Friendship Ministries-Canada seek applicants for the position of Executive Director to lead the ministries in sharing God’s love with people who have intellectual disability and enabling them to become an active part of God’s family.

Qualified applicants will have:

• A bachelor degree (special education or ministry-related preferred)
• Four years management experience (special education or ministry-related preferred)
• Passion for including people with intellectual disabilities in the life of the Church
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and speaking
• Ability to manage a staff and volunteers
• Ability to raise funds to support the work of the ministry
• A commitment to Jesus Christ demonstrated in word and in deed

Other desirable qualities include:

• Experience with curriculum development and publishing
• Understanding of diversity and cultural complexity
• Direct experience in a Friendship Class/Club

Pay Range:  $62,000-$82,000

Applicants should submit the following items for the consideration of the search committee:

1. A resumé

2. Essays responding to the following questions:

• Why are you interested in serving in this position?
• What prior experience do you have with people who have intellectual disability?
• What is your theology of disability?

All materials should be sent to Rev. Barry Chance at barrywchance@gmail.com.

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If you would like to know more about applying for this position, please find out more at www.friendship.org

Marriage and Family with Consideration for Disability

For those that have requested to read my paper, here it is. 

Please feel free to critique and correct!

Book Review: Divine Towels

Most current theologies of disability construct new possibilities by rejecting previous philosophies as unsuited for the modern world.  Every once in a while, however, an author will rely on the historical tradition of faith and call people to a new, yet centuries old way of living. 

Divine Towels in an intriguing book: while not strictly a theological treatise, it does contain multiple reflections on the transcendence, immanence, and character of God.  Technically, the style of writing arises somewhere in a vortex of inspirational literature, parable, and Christian mysticism – a cross between the 19th century George MacDonald and The Shack’s William P. Young.  Do not read this as a novel; the action is interspersed with long devotional thought.

While not explicitly stating as such, this twelve-years long labor by novice author Beau Jason McGlynn draws upon his own experience as an adult with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and his relationship with his own mother to craft a modern retelling of the Madonna and Child.  In parabolic form, Jesus is successfully re-imagined as an adult with a disability who has the motivation to heal others yet understands his own limitations necessitated by the purpose of the cross.

As true in most pietistic literature, the Christian laity is called to become more engaged in both praxis and service outside of the worship service.  Furthermore, existing institutional structures of church and medicine are considered corrupt:  the church is redeemable but the reliance on a biomedical framework is rejected.

Many evangelicals will embrace the devotional flavor, but find difficulty with mystical rituals. Disability theologians will applaud the rejection of medicine as healer, but will find an Augustinian Christian worldview difficult to accept.  Editors will undoubtedly want to tighten and strengthen the movement.  Yet Divine Towels proves to be valuable as an expression of what it means for a person with a disability to be used by God to minister to others.  People with disabilities are not only important parts of the body of Christ – they can be active parts as well.

Divine Towels. Beau Jason McGlynn. (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2012) 278 pp. Paperback, $12.00 ISBN: 978-1475093827

Book Review: A Constructive Theology of Intellectual Disability

What does it mean to be human? Disability theology has long sought to access the biases of anthropology in the understanding of the formation of the imago Dei in those with profound intellectual disability. Molly C. Haslam (PhD.-Vanderbilt) advocates for a new perspective in A Constructive Theology of Intellectual Disability: Human Being as Mutuality and Response. Haslam reflects upon her more than twenty years’ experience as a physical therapist in this first theological work.

This 134 page treatise integrates a phenomenological example which gives voice to the critique of common anthropological models in Christianity. Haslam is concerned that disability theology continues to utilize outmoded anthropology, which requires a conceptualized distinct agential self and its corresponding intellectual aptitude. The author suggests that anthropology be constructed in terms of mutual relation instead of capacity. Utilizing the dialogical model of Martin Buber’s [I-It] and [I-Thou] relationships, the author posits that the image of God is discerned in the mutual relationships between created beings and their mutual responsiveness, even in non-symbolic ways.

Haslam begins her critique by engaging Gordon Kaufman’s theological anthropology which privileges the imago Dei in the agential capacity of co-creators with God. She rejects this option as not broad enough to embrace those with profound intellectual disability who lack the ability for purposeful action and self-reflection. The author continues by assessing George Lindbeck’s anthropology; humans are defined as those with the capacity to decipher linguistics and symbolic expressions in order to understand the covenantal story of God and his people. Haslam goes further when questioning the motive of Stanley Hauerwas’ disability theology; does it serve individuals with disability or are persons with disability subservient to the story? She chooses to embrace Kaufman’s concept of biohistoricity – appreciating all religious claims as locally valid in time and space over against an unchanging narrative.

Utilizing her vast experience of working with profoundly intellectually disabled persons, Haslam draws out illustrations of non-communicable and pre-linguistic individuals unable to differentiate self. Those same individuals, however, show responsiveness in the presence of others, eliciting a dynamic of mutual response, and resulting in the cultivation of ongoing relationship. These scenarios give force to her development of anthropology based on Buber’s idea; the existence of human being can only be defined in mutual relations and the pursuit of knowing God through [I-Thou] relational presence. For Haslam, this model is most relevant as it relies on relationships through the interplay of will and grace outside the control of self. As this model does not see the other as an object, it eliminates all self- serving acts and allows the focus to be on mutual helping and healing.

Haslam concludes with a re-examination of the historical construction of Imago Dei. She rejects the substantialist conception found in both Aquinas and Calvin, whom both elevated intellectual reason as the discrete marker of God reflected in humanity. Informed by Martin Luther and Buber, she embraces a mutually participatory relational concept which includes God as a participant. Her un-anthropomorphized concept of God as yearning itself, however, is informed by the mystical writings of the 5th century Pseudo Dionysius. Only in this context, does she believe that individuals with profound disability can participate fully as image bearers of God.

Haslam’s analysis of traditional anthropology reveal some shortcomings. Christian theologians have been reluctant to address items related to the anthropology and the necessarily related soteriology in terms of individuals with profound disabilities. The development of a framework of mutuality and response through selfless relationship bears promise as it relies on the inner working of the Trinity.

Some evangelical readers will rightly wonder if the rejection of the narrative drama of redemption in favor of one informed by mysticism is preferable while developing such an anthropology. Haslam premises the work with an acceptance of a modern notion of the universe which understands God as a concept within the realm of knowledge and not as an actor on history. Her suggestion that this anthropology can extend to all animals and inanimate objects in the universe potentially under-privileges the very population she desires to serve. The heart of this work, however, is valid. The author, by illustrating the failures of current thought and practice points us towards a direction in which mutual responsiveness and authentic relationships are required for being human.

A Constructive Theology of Intellectual Disability: Human Being as Mutuality and Response. Molly C. Haslam. (New York, NY: Fordham University Press, 2012). 134 pp. Paperback,$26.00 ISBN: 978-0-2832-3941-2.

Book Review: Lessons From Katherine

In recent years, a new genre in disability related literature has emerged.  While not scholarly in nature, lessons can yet be extracted.  This new narrative emerges from the perspective of the parent of a child with disability - most often the mother.  One such story is Lessons from Katherine, written in an easy conversational style by Glenda W. Prins, an ordained United Church of Christ minister.

Lessons from Katherine is not a recounted biography of the adopted daughter Katherine, but an up close and vulnerable 157 page diary of the author’s spiritual struggles through life in a context tempered by disability.  In fact the story is not focused on the multiple disabilities of Katherine, but on the inability of the author to cope with lost dreams.

Inability defines this work – inability to achieve ordination as a female, to conceive a child, to navigate the complex bio-medical world successfully, to keep a business afloat, to sustain a marital relationship, and to communicate openly with God.  Yet despite these disabling conditions, the author eventually finds resolution within the tension: ordination is achieved, businesses become restored, relationships are reconciled and new life emerges.  The human journey is messy yet redeemable.

Lessons from Katherine unveils a seldom lifted curtain on the emotional stress families affected by disability undergo.  It reveals the mindset behind a parent doing whatever it takes for their child.  Do not look for pithy comforting statements in this book – it is full of anguish and emotion.  Nor is this a guidebook – lessons learned are not articulated to be replicated.  Perhaps the major insight gleaned is reflected in the epilogue – experience with disability does not make one a better person, but a different one.

As a parent of a child with a disability, I can relate all too well to these genuine scenarios. As a disability advocate, I see how much further society must go. As I read and compare the blogs of young moms today, however, I am struck by the difference in tone and hope.  This book is an important historical reminder of the accomplishments made through the pain of the previous generation.

For professionals in the special education or human disability service sector who desire to understand real family dynamics, this book provides a partial glimpse.  Yet this is not just for professionals or those impacted by disability.  It is a journal of how a person develops a faithful spiritually, tears and all, during times of continual crisis. Spiritual journeys are often personal.  This memoir will comfort some and create questions in others – but can be worth the time to read.

Lessons from Katherine. Glenda W. Prins. (Winchester, UK: CirclePress |John Hunt Publishing, 2013). 157 pp. Paperback, $20.00 ISBN: 978-1-78099-451-2

[This review is updated  from the one provided to the publisher - for original review, click here.]

Marriage Matters: Monica and David

The evangelical world has been abuzz the last few months, waiting to see how trends in legal interpretation will impact marriage.  As the rhetoric dies down the lines have become clear.  Modern marriage has two distinct definitions and contexts -- one as a sacrament ordained by God and administered by the church - the other a civil agreement made for legal, tax, and insurance purposes administered by the government. While some will laud and other decry recent decisions, there is still a group of Christians who find it difficult becoming accepted and married within the church.

People with intellectual disabilities have the same emotions and drives as a typical person.  They fall in love, look for comfort and companionship, and dream of a lifelong partner.  Yet both parents and clergy often put an end to that dream quickly.  I understand.  As a parent of a daughter who jokes about boyfriends and likes to dance, I know that someday I will play the part of an overprotective parent.  I also know the quickest way to make a long winded pastor speechless is to ask him to officiate a ceremony between two intellectually disabled adults. 

The 2010 Tribeca Film Festival Award winner Monica and David follow the life of two thirty somethings who decide to get married.  The film focuses on their wedding and the first year of marriage life. An honest analysis indicates that many of the same struggles they encounter are actually very similar to those that every newlywed couple finds. Just as anything else, people with disabilities are just like you and I.

To be sure the supports are still there, intentional conversations were held, and detailed plans were made and rehearsed endlessly.  The success of their marriage is largely due to the close ties they have with family and community -- but isn't that true for all of us?  Perhaps one of the lessons this teaches us is that marriage relationships would become healthier if we were more interdependent with one another.

As people with intellectual disabilities live longer and assimilate more, pastors will need to be ready to sit down with them and those close to them.  As a keeper of the sacrament, pastors will play a role in counseling both the parents and the couple into charting an unwalked journey.   Relationships are key.  A great way to do this is to become engaged in the development of a person centered plan years before wedding bliss even appears on the horizon. This overprotective dad will thank you for it.

Morphing Disability

Two news stories regarding people with disabilities appeared this week.  Both of them made me stop and think.  The first was about a woman who was seeking to pay surgeons to make her permanently physical disabled.  The second was about a team of researchers at the University of Massachusetts who believe they have unlocked the first step in turning off the 47th chromosome of Down syndrome.  Both stories challenge our thinking on medical ethics, social integration, identity, anthropology, and ministry.  What does it mean to be disabled?  Is this a step that the biomedical sphere should engage in?  Does the advances of medicine even contribute to our socially constructed ideas of disability?

Many people with late onset disability often wish they could return to their previous state – because they have knowledge of it.  Those with lifetime disability have no frame of reference outside of disability and often will express the desire to remain with that particular disability.  Both groups attempt to assimilate in culture all the same.

Perhaps the ladies request to become disabled is shocking because those of us who are not yet impaired cannot fathom a life devalued like that, never realizing that we are the ones that contribute to that very perception.   Our minds quickly argue that she is in need of serious psychological healing.  

Yet are we not the ones who require a cure?  Perhaps if we developed meaningful relationships with and integrated people with disabilities into all aspects of our lives and friendships, this request would not even register in our consciousness – we would welcome her not matter what.  Our problem is that of blindness. Sharon Betzer, author of Spirit and the Politics of Disablement neatly relates this optic problem with the story of the threatening man who became an unnoticed invalid with the wave of a white cane.  The first picture invoked fear; the second was not even noticed.  Neither of these reactions are appropriate.

It is no longer unfathomable to think that genetic science might provide clues to identity.  While some (me included) appropriately wonder if we are crossing a line that belongs to God, we do so having already benefited from numerous technological and medical advances that crossed that same line years ago.  We forget our own heritage.  Yet my main concern does not lie in the fact that someday this might be possible and some may choose invasive corrective procedures.  It rests in the fact that those who do not choose it may become further alienated and disfranchised.

Our calling as disability ministers remain clear – whatever choices people make, whatever identity they absorb as part of the bearer of Christ’s image, we are to prophetically gather all in one body to worship.

Expanding Capacity

It's nice to be home.

I've spent most of the last month in Wisconsin, Michigan and Missouri meeting and talking with disability ministry leaders from around the country. One thing I've observed is that the methodology we do ministry is changing as the cultural attitudes which shape our audience has evolved over the last several decades.  Barb Ward Dittrich rightfully points out in a recent blog that the basis to ministry is still rooted in relational friendship -- reiterating the theological development Hans Reindeers penned in the Gift of Friendship.

For those of us involved in well established ministries this presents both opportunities and challenges.  The entrenchment of our methods gives us a place to be comfortable -- to be at home.  Venturing out into unfamiliar territory and strange surroundings is as uncomfortable as an extended-stay hotel mattress.  It is much easier to retreat towards and relax in a place we know is safe.

Recently, I sat and listened to Dr. Craig Van Gelder, a noted North American missiologist, as he discussed the processes needed and the obstacles to expanding capacity in ministry.  There is no question that all of those in disability ministry want to find more volunteers, develop more networks, and find ways to minister more effectively alongside those in our churches and communities.  The biggest obstacle to that goal tends to be our desire to remain comfortable where we are.  Our discussions were scripturally rooted in Luke 10. This passage related the story of when Christ commissioned the seventy to go out as the harvest is plentiful and the laborers are few.  The next few verses have deep yet simple implications for networking, hospitality, ministry funding, and expansion. Why? -- because it challenges all involved to move out of normal comfort and into a trusting dependency upon God's providence.

Privileging Disability through Mission, Vision and Value Reviews

I am grateful for churches who have developed special needs and disability programs.  In the last decade more have come into being, although not nearly enough.  But a caution to ministry leaders -- just because you have developed something, do not let it wither.  Strategic reviews are periodically necessary to ensure that it is still meeting the need of your community and the mission of your church.  If you do not intentionally look for your blind spot, someone else will find it for you. A great church in Southern California, with a successful disability ministry, missed something and has been called out on it publicly.  Be proactive and do not let it get to that point.  If Jesus could take time to wash the disciples feet, then we can take time to let our programs be subject to the personhood of people with disability.

So how do you avoid this?  By privileging disability.  Ensure that an intentional attempt is made to put those with disability in our line of sight.  Author Thomas Reynolds argues for this in his theological work Vulnerable Communion: A Theology of Disability and Hospitality.  A simple purview of the New Testament will show that Jesus spent much of his public discourse with those who were either disabled in body or socially disabled within the community.

What does this look like in a church or pastoral staff meeting?  Every decision should be examined from a standpoint of disability. (Notice that even in my language here I did not privilege those who are unable to stand - ablist attitudes are unconsciously  interwoven into our thought and speech). Mission, Vision and Implementation statements should clearly welcome those with special needs.  Sermons, programs, and budgets should match the vision.

How can churches practically do this?  Here are just a few ideas.

• Put the special needs information in the bulletin or on social media on a regular basis - do not hide it under layers of other ministries.
• Assign a pastor, board member, or key congregational leader as the person with oversight and input -- and publicly identify them.
• Feature disability prominently in your public mission statement - (example: Orchard View Alliance Church in Janesville, Wisconsin.
• Ensure that persons with mobility needs are including in discussions of facility priorities.
• Allow people with special needs to be fully included in all areas of the church -- even governance.
• Invite a person with a disability to minister from the pulpit.

Privileging those with disability will allow us to embrace God's entire picture.