wisdom

Indispensable Interdependence, for the Health of the Church

Indispensable Interdependence, for the Health of the Church

A profound affirmation from a friend revealed to Joanna French that all members of the body of Christ need each other—and yes, that includes people with disabilities and mental illness.

Do You See What I See?

Do You See What I See?

Do you have a desire to be involved with ministry in some way, but all the existing ministry options don’t seem to fit? If you’re interested in discerning where God is leading you, or just want to shorten the path to living out His purposes, we’ll share more details about how to recognize and pursue the path God is laying before you, not only from our perspective, but also with some ministry friends who have gone through this process.

The Importance of Confronting Abusive Behavior 

The Importance of Confronting Abusive Behavior 

This post is shared as part of our series on sexual abuse trauma, but also addresses the importance of confronting and correcting abusive behavior of any kind. Repentance and transformation to the mind and actions of Christ must always be the goals.

25 Encouraging Bible Verses for Disability Ministry Leaders

25 Encouraging Bible Verses for Disability Ministry Leaders

Tis the season when caring ministry leaders and volunteers typically try to do some regrouping. The Bible has generous reassurance for leaders caring for individuals and families affected by special needs. I pray you know the tremendous value of the work you do and find refreshment in God’s truth here!

Celebrating the Interconnected Tapestry that is the Body of Christ

Celebrating the Interconnected Tapestry that is the Body of Christ

We are living in times ripe for the history books. Most of us have been weighing questions on topics ranging from the effects of isolation to medical vulnerability, racial equity and religious freedoms. Leaders in the disability movement are keenly aware of overlaps and similarities among the issues at hand. I’ve been praying that God would use this season to grow us into more compassionate and courageously engaged people, because we desperately need to start appreciating our uniquenesses and enjoying how interconnected we are.

Waiting Alongside: A Powerful Way The Body of Christ Can Support Those Who Seem Weaker

Waiting Alongside: A Powerful Way The Body of Christ Can Support Those Who Seem Weaker

Lately I’ve been focusing on being thankful. I‘ve posted “thankful posts” every couple of days, trying daily to find something to thank Jesus for. Mine is an ongoing season of caregiving for my 16-year-old twin girls who both have disabilities and will never live independently. But there is ALWAYS something to thank Jesus for: for the peace I had today, for the ones who prayed in their seats, for those who asked if we were okay, for this body of believers, who simply were there, alongside us, while we waited.

Five Practical Ways Churches Can Support Special Needs Families

Five Practical Ways Churches Can Support Special Needs Families

There has never been a day I grieved my children. Still, deep in my heart, there is this grief. Please hear me when I say my children are a joy. They are the reason I have found my calling. But today, I want you to learn from my experience what the parents of special needs children may be feeling in your church, and how you can help.

Learning From The Disability Community Can Lead To Stronger Faith

Learning From The Disability Community Can Lead To Stronger Faith

How does the church enter the world of the disabled? By embracing the stories of disabled people and their experience with God, because their perspective can provide a profound new understanding of God.