One of the most influential individuals in disability theology and disability ministry was Jean Vanier. He was also one of the greatest disappointments.
He wrote many books that shared important insight, not just about disabilities but about being human in general. He also did many things to improve the lives of people with disabilities.
But after his death, it was revealed that he sexually (and spiritually) abused a number of women.
Many disability theologians won’t quote from Jean Vanier any more. Some have removed all of his books from their libraries.
I will say that I haven’t eliminated his books from my library and I have a section on him on my Doctor of Ministry thesis.
None of that means that I approve of what he did or that I’m insensitive to the feelings of his victims.
I have struggled with this. But I keep landing back to “truth is truth.” Something doesn’t become untrue because it was said by Jean Vanier or John Howard Yoder.
Is there a way to draw upon the insight of those who fall far below the standards of Christ without supporting their crimes?
In the end, each individual will have to make the choice for themselves. Some will not feel comfortable using Vanier and that is fine. Others will be open to using his works.
We can judge Vanier’s abuse but we shouldn’t judge each other for what we do with his writings.
