In this warm, practical, and challenging book Gaventa opens up the area of spirituality and disability in a way that not only increases our knowledge, but also challenges us in deep ways to change our practices. Disability and Spirituality presents a wonderfully clear overview of the historical and contemporary developments within the area of spirituality and disability and lays down a firm foundation for future conversations. Gaventa fills a space that has been empty for far too long.
~John Swinton, Professor in Practical Theology and Pastoral Care, University of Aberdeen
With this book Bill Gaventa has added an intellectual masterpiece to his already astonishing practical work in the field of disability and religion. The main idea of his book--that disability and spirituality are mutually connected both in reflection and experience--is both a conclusion from a lifelong commitment to people with disabilities and their families and an opening of new avenues for enriching professional supports to improve their lives.
~Hans S. Reinders, Professor of Ethics and Bernard Lievegoed Professor of Ethics in Long-term Care, VU University Amsterdam
Through the prism of disability Bill Gaventa, in his inimitable style and informed by his wealth of lived experiences, has illuminated the essential meaning of spirituality. His thesis, eloquently explored in this volume, is that spirituality and disability can be a two-way process. Spirituality can lead us to a deeper understanding of disability, but the reverse is also true. I know of no other book which has so effectively combined the wealth of experiences of the writer with his deep insights into the essential humanity of all people, but especially those with lifelong disabilities. Disability and Spirituality will be an invaluable reference for people with disabilities, families, support staff, and anyone who has the privilege of walking beside people who are so often marginalized in our society.
~Trevor R. Parmenter, Professor Emeritus, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney
Disability and Spirituality is not a textbook, a thesis-driven argument, or even a manifesto of disability theory. It is a holistic practical theology, written through the lens of pastoral care, for those with physical and intellectual disabilities that should be required reading for pastors, chaplains, spiritual care-givers, and pastoral theologians.
~Brandon L. Morgan, Reading Religion
In Disability and Spirituality: Recovering Wholeness William C. Gaventa distills a lifetime of work in care institutions and churches to foster better ways of meeting people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Gaventa’s passion is to support people with disabilities and their families while pressing service organizations to address spirituality and to take more seriously the supporting roles faith communities might play.
~Brian Brock, Scottish Journal of Theology
William Gaventa’s Disability and Spirituality: Recovering Wholeness is a compelling blend of interdisciplinary engagement, robust scholarship and insightful pastoral commentary. Having spent his life in chaplaincy and advocacy roles with disabled people, their families and support workers, Gaventa’s book reflects his commitment to building understanding across the health and human services and navigating fresh ways of reflecting on the lived experience of disabled persons
~Coralie Bridle, Pacific Journal of Theological Research
This is an impactful book, distilling a wide range of insights into a cogent, book-length presentation. It is the mature work of a leader in his field. The accessible prose, intersectional focus, and rich use of stories should make it a valuable resource for the clergy, academics, and care professionals alike.
~David N. Scott, Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology
Gaventa’s book harvests his perspective gained from decades of chaplaincy work with individuals who have disabilities. He uses that experience as a platform for insightful, grounded reflections on spirituality and disability, which when combined with his practical reflections, can help both secular and religious organizations foster spiritual wholeness for individuals with a disability. This refreshing book focuses on practical strategies for inclusion and flourishing.
~Aaron Klink, Religious Studies Review
