Paul’s inclusive missionary theology for people living with disabilities in Kilifi, Kenya

Abstract

This study investigates how Paul’s Missionary Theology (PMT) in the church at Corinth can enhance the Church Missional Paradigm (CMP) in the Anglican Kilifi Archdeaconry for People Living with Disabilities (PLWD). Limited to the biblical texts of 1 Corinthians 12:1–14 and 2 Corinthians 8:1–9, the study identifies critical focuses on Paul’s inclusive and community-centred theology of mission. The research aimed to explore the current CMP to PLWD in Kilifi Archdeaconry, critically analyse Paul’s approach in Corinth, and examine how these practices could enhance the missional engagement of Kilifi Archdeaconry to PLWD. Guided by Kirk Franklin’s theory of Friendship and Community in the missio Dei, the study employed qualitative research methods including interviews and focus group discussions. The oral sources gathered from 12 respondents, the basis for generating basic, organising and global themes, were analysed using Jennifer Attride’s thematic analysis – a social scientific tool for thematic analysis – to address the question: What has Kilifi Archdeaconry accomplished regarding the mission of PLWD? The research findings reveal a grounded theory, namely, cultural tensions, leadership instability and societal stigmatisation hinder effective inclusive missions to PLWD. However, PMT that emphasises inclusivity in diversity portends the potential for enhancing missional outreach to PLWD by regarding them as crucial members of God’s family.
Contribution: By using Paul’s missionary theology to enhance missional outreach to PLWD, the study contextualises biblical theology in religious traditions in Africa. Similarly, the inclusivity in diversity complements Mojola and Dhunpath’s call for South African organisations to develop disability employment policies for PLWD.