Theology, Disability, and Spiritual Transformation: Learning from the Communities of L'Arche (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781604976946)

In this study, Michael Hryniuk develops a full phenomenological, psychological and theological account of spiritual transformation in the context of L'Arche, a federation of Christian communities that welcome persons with learning disabilities. The book begins with a critical examination of current perspectives on spiritual transformation in theology and Christian spirituality and constructs a new, foundational formulation of transformation as a shift in consciousness, identity and behavior. Through extensive analysis of the narratives of the caregiver-assistants who share life with those who are disabled, this case-study reveals an alternative vision of the "three-fold way" that unfolds through a series of profound awakenings in relationships of mutual care and presence: an awakening to the capacity to love, to bear inner anguish and darkness, and to experience radical human and divine acceptance. The book examines the psychological dimensions of spiritual transformation through the lens of contemporary affect theory and explores how care-givers experience a profound healing of shame in their felt sense of identity and self-worth.

Author: Michael Hryniuk
ISBN-10: 1604976942
ISBN-13: 9781604976946
Publisher: Cambria Press
Language: English
Published: 04/18/2010
Pages: 332
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.45lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.88d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 08/01/2010 pg. 26