About the Disability and Religion Project
The Coelho Center for Disability Law, Policy, and Innovation (the Center) is a part of Loyola Marymount University (LMU), a Jesuit Institution with a strong mission to:
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- The encouragement of learning
- The education of the whole person
- The service of faith and the promotion of justice
Strengthen by LMU's mission and The Center's mission to advocate for disability justice, we have launched a project with the objective to:
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- Intersectional analysis of scripture
- Community-driven research and reports
- Convenings, coalitions, and resources
This project is led by Sister Trish Doan, C.S.J. For more information, contact us at coelhocenter@lmu.edu.
Jesus and People with Disabilities
Jesus' ministry consistently demonstrated his profound care for the marginalized, including individuals with disabilities. The Gospels record numerous encounters where Jesus interacted with disabled people, revealing his transformative healing, inclusivity, and the significance of faith and community. These stories challenge us to move beyond individual models of disability to embrace a more inclusive and relational understanding of the kingdom of God—one that calls us to build communities where all are valued.
Zacchaeus and the Social Model of Disability (Luke 19:1-10):
Jesus does not alter Zacchaeus' short stature or demand that he rethink his status as a little person. Instead, Jesus recognizes and affirms him, calls him by name, and dines with him—restoring his place in the community... Zacchaeus’ true transformation comes not from a physical change but from a social and spiritual restoration.
Bartimaeus and Autonomy (Mark 10:46-52):
Instead of assuming that Bartimaeus wants physical transformation or any other form of assistance, Jesus invites him to speak for himself, to define his own needs. This recognition of Bartimaeus' agency is a powerful moment, reflecting the importance of allowing individuals to express their desires and access needs in creating a community.
The Paralyzed Man and Interdependence (Mark 2:1-12):
The story of the paralyzed man thus demonstrates the importance of collaborative efforts for access. It highlights the communal responsibility to ensure everyone has access to the communities we create, mirroring our contemporary call for disability justice within faith communities.
Events and Publications
July 2025
Coelho Center Assistant Director Sister Trish Doan, C.S.J. and Coelho Center Director Katherine Perez, Ph.D., J.D. are co-authors with fellow colleagues from Georgetown University, Boston University, and the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities on a new AJCU Discussion Paper that focuses on Disability Communities at Jesuit Colleges & Universities.
June 2025
Trish Doan and Katherine Perez, "Disability Rights Organizational Partnerships with Church Leaders and Communities", In Disability and Immigration: Building Partnerships for a Just Future, Los Angeles, CA, June 25-27, 2025.