Hidden Disabilities

A Message for Children's Ministers on Inclusion: Podcast Episode 040

A Message for Children's Ministers on Inclusion: Podcast Episode 040

Today’s episode is a message of encouragement for those of you in children’s ministry who want to be more proactive about including kids with disabilities, including mental health and behavioral diagnosis. In your school district, it's likely that 20% of the students are receiving IEP or 504 accommodations to make learning easier for them. The message we share, the gospel, is important enough to be willing to make some accommodations for too in our ministries! So let's talk about why and how you can make your ministry more accessible!

Disability Ministry: A Tale of Two Churches

Disability Ministry: A Tale of Two Churches

Guest blogger Sandy Hartranft shares her son's experience with the disability ministries at two churches—each with its own approach to inclusion and belonging.

DATC2023 Ministry Intensive Preview: An Interview with Stephen "Doc" Hunsley: Podcast Episode 039

DATC2023 Ministry Intensive Preview: An Interview with Stephen "Doc" Hunsley: Podcast Episode 039

In today’s podcast, Catherine Boyle interviews Doc Hunsley from SOAR Special Needs, and lets you know how you can sign up for Doc’s Disability Ministry 101 Ministry Intensive at DATC2023.

The Reason I No Longer Mask my Neurodivergence at Church

The Reason I No Longer Mask my Neurodivergence at Church

After a recent conversation, Joanna French had the realization that she rarely masks her neurodivergence in her church. She shares her hope that everyone finds a community where their difference will be celebrated instead of admonished.

Advertise Every Miracle: A Lesson from Hanukkah

Advertise Every Miracle: A Lesson from Hanukkah

Somewhere along my walk of faith, God opened my eyes to the wealth of substance my faith was missing by not studying the roots of our faith as Christians, which lay in Judaism. The season of Hanukkah is coming to a close, but it holds a unique hope for us.

The Sin of Partiality and Disability Ministry

The Sin of Partiality and Disability Ministry

Right now, so many churches are seeking a few, permitting some, but not unabashedly speaking and sharing the gospel, ensuring its access to everyone. Is your church committing the sin of partiality?

Including Special-Needs Families in Your Church's Christmas Activities: Podcast Episode 029

Including Special-Needs Families in Your Church's Christmas Activities: Podcast Episode 029

Podcast co-host Sandra Peoples grew up with a sister with Down syndrome and now has a teenager with level 3 autism, so she knows how different the holidays can feel for a family like hers. But they don't have to feel different at church! With a few steps of consideration, she shares how families can feel included and valued. Let's make sure special-needs families can hear the message of hope this Christmas!

The Spiritual Role of a Buddy

The Spiritual Role of a Buddy

To be an effective buddy, we must do both the practical and the spiritual work.