Rethinking belonging: Integrating social science and theology to address ableism

This paper explores the concept of belonging as a lens for understanding how faith communities navigate ableism. Theological literature on belonging contains helpful reflections, but lacks a conceptual framework needed for empirical research. Drawing on social science literature, this paper presents a framework that integrates five interrelated dimensions of belonging. The intrapersonal dimension emphasizes the fluctuating, subjective nature of belonging, highlighting the importance of ongoing conversations within faith communities. The interpersonal dimension focuses on relational dynamics, while the political dimension addresses power and accessibility issues. The material dimension, where all other dimensions converge, links belonging to sensory and spatial experiences. Lastly, the transcendental dimension draws attention to a belonging that surpasses human relationships. Through these dimensions we can discern and interpret experiences and practices of (non)belonging in faith communities.