The potential and challenges of an online Bible study group for persons with disabilities

Abstract

Background: Research shows that persons with disabilities can derive significant benefits from participating in religious communities and activities. However, they often face significant physical and attitudinal barriers to participation. The use of digital platforms for religious gatherings has increased since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and may hold potential to promote accessible religious participation. Objectives: This study explored the benefits and challenges of an online Bible study group for persons with disabilities hosted within a Christian Pentecostal congregation in Cape Town, South Africa. Method: A phenomenological study design was adopted, and data were gathered from four participants using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed. Results: Although some components of the online environment were found to be beneficial for participants’ spiritual well-being, other components were shown to be challenging, such as technological barriers, a lack of direct physical interaction and feelings of isolation. The digital space provided only partial inclusion and does not represent a full solution to exclusionary religious spaces. Conclusion: Church leadership must engage more rigorously with strategies of disability inclusion, which may include digital components. Contribution: This research contributes to the fields of disability studies, religious inclusion and digital engagement. Recommendations include the use of adaptable technologies, leadership training in disability inclusion within a religious space and developing more engaging platforms to foster inclusion within these religious spaces.