Finding the Sweet Spot

In a world that increasingly recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, the role of faith communities in fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can serve and grow, is paramount.

Gone are the days of isolated disability programs; the future lies in a church where inclusivity is seamlessly woven into every aspect of faith life. The family ministry model says we do this like a family, everything that we do is interconnected and I believe the disability ministry has its place, that there is a silo for disability ministry, and it should exist. However, it should never exist on its own. It should always be connected to kids ministry, youth ministry, women's ministry, men's ministry, adult ministry, and whatever else is going on in the church. Disability is so vast, that whatever else is going on in the church, impacts all those different pieces. We must make those silos come together.

Highlight the shift from pity to compassion as a critical mindset change necessary for fostering full participation in church services. Julie Bohn talks about Sunday school classes, Bible classes and worship services that can be opportunities for individuals with disabilities to be a part of the church. They may have something called a worship buddy which helps them to memorize Bible verses or aid in understanding the meaning behind the words or scripture or those kind of things. And she advocates for training what she calls a personal shepherd who can aid an individual with a disability through an entire church service. When I train churches, I share about a buddy who can come alongside an individual with a disability to help them navigate the services and events that the church has to offer. Now, those are not necessarily new approaches. They have been in existence for quite a while. However, the frequency or the normality of them being used would be a little bit more questionable.

We need to move beyond simply serving one specific group, advocating for a church that accommodates everyone, where every member has the opportunity to know Christ, grow in Him, and use their unique gifts in service.

Serving within the church is a vital aspect and recognizing the talents of all members, including those with disabilities, to fulfill the church's mission. Noah, is a young man whose problem-solving skills illustrate the profound impact inclusive service opportunities can have on the individual and the church at large. He'll say, well, what about this? Did you think about that? And some people may discount him in that area because he has a disability, but he loves to problem-solve. So whenever I have a problem in setup and considerations of things that I'm doing, I'm going to Noah, because Noah's going to say what about this? What about that? Now, I don't always take his ideas. I don't always utilize everything he says. Sometimes his suggestion brings about a conversation that brings us to the conclusion. That’s his sweet spot. Everyone has one. It may not fit in the box of what we think, but God knows exactly what is looks like.

Creating environments where the Body of Christ can interact together, requires servants that will open the doors to disciple and help deploy people in their sweet spot. Another individual I have been blessed to know, couldn’t set up chairs and organize a space, but his ideas and intellect have made an impact on the world. A man who was in an accident, and lived out his life as a quadriplegic became an author who shared his life experiences. Another example was a child whose brief life left an indelible mark on their community. These stories serve as poignant reminders that serving God goes beyond public ministry and that everyone has a role to play in advancing the kingdom of God.

These opportunities only arise when we look outside of the disability ministry. Open doors to the possibilities that God has set forth and we cultivate spiritual gifts in all people.

Thanks for exploring how faith communities can and should cultivate an inclusive environments where everyone, including people with disabilities, can contribute, grow, and experience the fullness of church life.

Ignite a passion for inclusivity and service in diverse congregations, urging us to weave inclusivity into the very fabric of our faith life.