Theologies of disability: a driving force for change

Ever since the publication of Nancy Eiesland’s iconic book The Disabled God theologians of disability have challenged mainstream representations of God, interpretations of Scripture, and what it means to live a dignified live before God. Still, when disability and other critical perspectives are not taken into account, questions about the nature of God, church, and humanness are being asked from a narrow “ablebodied” perspective, often implying that impairment and vulnerability is considered “abnormal” and “unwanted”. Religious perspectives inform people’s worldviews and determine their attitudes and actions in society. Hence, promoting a more inclusive society where all are welcome regardless of one’s (dis)abilities may need the transformation of religious beliefs concerning disability. This interdisciplinary panel seeks to question how critical reflection on the practices and holy texts of faith communities from a disability perspective can lead to a more complete comprehension of God and humanity. Can a renewed hermeneutics bring about changes in the practices of faith communities, e.g. in their liturgical celebrations, in the way people bear witness to their faith, or build community? Can a renewed theological perspective on disability be a driving force in the transformation of our societies towards more inclusiveness and belonging? Equally, how can the study of theology and religion be transformed from disability perspectives? These papers seek to address the above stated question