Christian Principles for Ministering to Families with Children with Disabilities

Abstract

The principles of Judeo-Christian thought offer a higher rationality from which to see, understand and minister with those who have disabilities and with those who love them. It begins with a view of the human person's highest and most real identity, which goes far beyond our disabilities and the utilitarian abilities valued by our secular culture. This view from "above" offers us God's perspective, which is larger, greater and more creative than current law, theory and/or practice admits. It begins with a view of the "disabled", first and foremost, as a beloved and essential member of God's very diverse family in which we are all like cells in Christ's body on earth. Operating from this perspective we are all offered an exquisite opportunity to increase in wholeness and holiness. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)