New Book Challenges Church's View on Disability and Faith

A new book by Timothy Goode, Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture at York Minster, is drawing attention for its bold critique of ableism in the Church. Breaking, Not Broken, published in January 2023, blends personal experience with theology to argue that suffering and disability hold deep meaning in Christian faith. The work has already earned praise from theologians and bishops alike.

Breaking, Not Broken centres on Goode's own life with cerebral palsy, framing each chapter around pivotal moments of struggle. These 'breaking points' become the foundation for exploring how brokenness can refine faith, using biblical figures like Job and the suffering of Christ as key references. The book doesn't stop at personal reflection—it weaves together Scripture, church history, and even architecture to question how the Church views disability.

Theologians have responded strongly to its message. Ian Markham calls the book a profound challenge, labelling ableism as sin and affirming that all people are 'fearfully and wonderfully made.' Paula Gooder highlights its call to rethink the body's place in faith, pointing to Jesus' resurrection as a model for embracing woundedness. Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford, describes it as a long-overdue conversation that the Church cannot ignore. Published by SCM Press on January 30, 2023, the book is now available for purchase at £48 through www.wjkbooks.com.

Breaking, Not Broken places disability at the heart of Christian reflection, urging a shift in how the Church understands both suffering and the body. Its arguments—rooted in Scripture, personal narrative, and theological critique—have already sparked discussion among leaders and scholars. The book stands as both a challenge and an invitation to reimagine faith through the lens of brokenness.