Creating an All-Embracing, Relationship Building Space
Almost 10 years ago, I took on a divine mission, trading my full-time job to serve the special needs community within our church and our state. It has been an enlightening journey, one that has made me realize how the church, despite its purpose of inclusion and acceptance, unfortunately, lags behind in embracing individuals with disabilities. The challenges help us realize the opportunities that disability ministry presents, and our earnest endeavor to bridge the gap between societal acceptance of disabilities and their representation within the church walls.
This conversation begins by exploring how attitudes towards people with disabilities have changed over time, and how the church still struggles to keep pace with this shift. I can say as a mom of a child with disabilities in the church…it was hard and it still is hard. We are getting better! The church can better integrate individuals with disabilities into congregations, focusing on the importance of fostering relationships, showing love and respect, and creating an inclusive environment. Notice, I didn’t say build programs, create a special needs ministry, and build therapy-grade sensory rooms. Although all of those are wonderful options…the relational portion is so much more important.
Inclusion in the church should not just be about having facilities or programs. It should be about creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, feels loved and valued. Programs and facilities can be a challenge for smaller churches. However, love and value can never be trumped by bells and whistles. People over programs, ALWAYS! A small church can still serve and love those who come through its doors by creating an environment of acceptance and understanding. Honestly, the big churches may get caught up in the bells and whistles and forget about the relational portion.
Navigating interactions, emotions, and needs can be difficult. Often, comments and encouragements can unintentionally hurt or alienate individuals with disabilities or their families. But, if we, deep down have love and concern for each other, the navigation becomes easier. Why? When we’re in relationship with people, they know we care. Our heart is the navigation system and so is theirs.
In the end, it all comes down to creating an all-embracing space within the church, a place where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can know Christ and grow in Him. We must strive to make our churches a beacon of love and acceptance, a place where everyone feels welcomed and valued. This journey of acceptance and inclusion may be challenging, but it is a journey worth taking. And with each conversation, each relationship built, each act of love and respect, we can help make the church an all-embracing space, one relationship at a time.
