In this episode, Revd Prebendary John Beauchamp shares his journey as a blind priest and disability ministry enabler, exploring the intersection of faith, disability, and inclusion within the church. He reflects on his personal experiences with blindness, the theological implications of disability, and the importance of belonging and participation for disabled individuals in church communities. The conversation delves into scriptural references to blindness, the cultural context of disability in Jesus' time, and the significance of healing and redemption in faith. John emphasizes the value of individuals beyond their abilities and the role of humour in addressing societal blind spots regarding disability.
Keywords
disability theology, blindness, faith journey, inclusion, church community, healing, scripture, John Beauchamp, spiritual insights, personal testimony
Takeaways
Sound Bites
'I once was blind, but now I see.'
'God wants us as we are.'
'Humour helps us see our blind spots.'
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to John Beauchamp and his Journey
02:31 Exploring Blindness and Faith
05:05 The Role of Disability in Ministry
07:44 Inclusion of Disabled Individuals in Church
10:36 Practical Steps for Accessibility
13:08 Disability Theology and Scriptural Perspectives
15:40 Metaphors of Blindness in Scripture
18:12 The Future of Disability in the New Creation
23:22 The Promise of Beauty in Pain
25:15 Experiencing God in Suffering
26:26 Cultural Context of Disability in Jesus' Time
33:55 Understanding Healing and Redemption
40:03 Preaching Insights on John Chapter 9
Show Notes
John's article on rootsforchurches.com: That the works of God might be revealed: John 9:1-41 by John
See also:
Disability-friendly church by Revd Katie Tupling
Going beyond inclusion by Mark Arnold
