Inclusion

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.

Building Better Banquets: How Prioritize Special-Needs Ministry In Your Church

Building Better Banquets: How Prioritize Special-Needs Ministry In Your Church

When church leadership is approached about the need to create environments that can serve the needs of the disability and special-needs community, the most common response is a lack of education and lack of resources. In other words, there is no room in the budget, no room in the mission, no room in the vision of the church, and no room for discussion about disability theology.

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.

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.

It's the hidden disabilities that keep kids out of church

It's the hidden disabilities that keep kids out of church

The study found that the children most likely to be excluded from church are those with autism spectrum disorders and common mental health conditions - anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder and ADHD.