Seeking Sanctuary, Finding Shalom: Toward a Deeper Practical Theology of Mental Health

by John Swinton, Angela H. Reed (Editor)

172 pages, Hardcover

Published September 15, 2025

About the author

John Swinton (born 1957) is a Scottish theologian. He is the Chair in Divinity and Religious Studies at the School of Divinity, History, and Philosophy, University of Aberdeen. He is founder of the university's Centre for Spirituality, Health and Disability. He is an ordained minister of the Church of Scotland and Master of Christ’s College, the university's theological college. Swinton is a major figure in the development of disability theology.

Reviews

[Daniel Rempel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Health is marked not by the absence of symptoms, but by the presence of Jesus.”

This book is Swinton distilled. Using the biblical framework of shalom, Swinton takes aim at overly individualized and commodified views of mental health (and thus mental health care) asking his readers to consider a more holistic vision of health and well-being, climaxing in kindness.

One to recommend to all the pastors and Christian care professionals in your life.