Cover of book: God's Wildflowers by Pia Matthews. Cover has a picture of a field of wildflowers

Book Description: 

 

"Called God’s Wild Flowers, the book draws attention to people who often feel on the margins because of disability and because of the apparent focus on human perfection. The lives of disabled saints demonstrate in action Saint Thérèse of Lisieux’s vision that there is rich variety in God's garden where wild flowers, violets and lilies take their place alongside roses. 

The book brings together theological reflection on disability with stories of 141 saints and blessed with disabilities ranging from physical disability to mental frailty, depression and learning difficulties. That there are many saints who were disabled should not be a surprise since people with disabilities are no different from other people and they are just as likely to be on the path to holiness. Indeed the book challenges those who think that the road to sainthood is to do with human perfection whether it be physical, mental or cognitive, rather than being the person that God wants each one of us to be, whatever our situation or condition."

- Gracewing Publishing

 

 

 

About the Author:

Dr. Pia Matthews lectures in Theology, Philosophy and Bioethics at St. John's Seminary, Wonersh and St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London. She has a daughter with complex multiple and profound disabilities. Pia's book on theology and profound disability, Pope John Paul II and the Apparently 'Non-Acting' Person is published by Gracewing.