[Synopsis only] Disability in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition since the Second Vatican Council

Zach Duke examines how disability was perceived in Catholic thinking prior to and after the Second Vatican Council. This piece highlights St Thomas Aquinas’ reflection; a creature by its very existence gives glory to God.  More recent reflections on the ‘dignity’ of all human persons provide a theoretical framework for all persons, including those living with a disability, to be welcomed and respected unconditionally. Pope Francis’ openness and comfort in the presence of those with disabilities shows how the rhetoric of earlier times can be lived out in practice.

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