IN 1984, SOJOURNERS community members Charlotte Baker-Shenk and Susan Masters (both hearing) helped midwife Deaf Christian liberation theology. In collective, ecumenical leadership with Deaf theologians and organizers Ella Mae Lentz, Patrick Graybill, Mary Weir, and others, they drafted the Claggett Statement, a watershed moment in the U.S. Deaf liberation movement. It was published in our March 1985 issue. “We do not view deafness as a sickness or handicap. We view it as a gift from God, which has led to the creation of a unique language and culture, worthy of respect and affirmation,” they wrote. In “How Deaf Christians Like Me Are Building Community,” Rachel Kolb recalls the power of that movement and reports on her search for Deaf Christian community today.
God invites people to liberation and justice by a thousand paths. Sojourners associate editor Josina Guess interviews a surgeon in Malawi on the impact of cuts to U.S. foreign aid. Associate editor Darren Saint-Ulysse reports on Pastor Wayne Lee’s fight to save Philadelphia’s Chinatown. And New Testament scholar Dong Hyeon Jeong wades into the tricky waters of praying for a president. It’s the Easter season. Practice resurrection.
Got something to say about what you're reading? We value your feedback!
