Families

Helping families discover their unexpected blessings

Helping families discover their unexpected blessings

Sandra has written a remarkable book that will be a great source of comfort and encouragement through revealing "the joys and possibilities of life in a special needs family."

How the Church Can Foster Meaningful Holidays for Special-Needs Siblings

How the Church Can Foster Meaningful Holidays for Special-Needs Siblings

I want to say “thank you” to leaders who are taking time to prayerfully ponder, be sensitive to, and invest in the experiences of their special-needs families throughout this beautiful holiday season. Your gift of love can give joy to an entire family.

Pastors, Here’s how to be a shepherd to special needs families in your church.

Pastors, Here’s how to be a shepherd to special needs families in your church.

David’s words about how God shepherded him have become my model for pastoral ministry to the special-needs community. Pastors, here are four things to consider when pastoring special-needs families through moments in the valley.

Why the Home Group Model Is Hard for Special-Needs Families and How to Make It Easier

Why the Home Group Model Is Hard for Special-Needs Families and How to Make It Easier

Many churches are moving away from the traditional Sunday school model and using home groups. But this way of “doing life together” can leave special-needs families isolated and alone.

Be a Church that Requires No “Pre-Apology”

Be a Church that Requires No “Pre-Apology”

Understanding the “pre-apology” mindset can help our churches create more welcoming, inclusive, and engaging worship experiences for families with special needs. The resulting diversity in our communities helps us better reflect the heart of Jesus among others and enriches our personal experience of Christ too.

Looking Good on Paper: Seeing Special-Needs Families Beyond What They Post on Social Media

Looking Good on Paper: Seeing Special-Needs Families Beyond What They Post on Social Media

We get dressed up for church and come into the building with smiles on our faces, because there is nothing like a grump to turn people away. But because we put on a good face, few ever inquire how we are really doing. WHY? Because we make it look easy—we have to. We do daily what we must do.

How a Small Change at Church Created a Big Problem

How a Small Change at Church Created a Big Problem

As I dropped her off at her class, I felt completely overwhelmed and wondered what in the world just happened. Jaycee had been totally confused by the whole ordeal but was glad to be in her familiar classroom. I was in no shape for a church service mentally. I was exhausted.

Four Characteristics of Church Environments Ready to Welcome Special-Needs Families

Four Characteristics of Church Environments Ready to Welcome Special-Needs Families

I have found that there are four characteristics of churches that already have the type of environment that can over time serve as a foundation for building a solid special-needs ministry for families who need their support.