Shelly Christensen, MA, is a leader in the growing faith community disability inclusion movement, an international speaker, and consultant to many faith congregations and organizations. She recently wrote From Longing to Belonging-A Practical Guide to Including People with Disabilities and Mental Health Conditions in Your Faith Community as a resource for faith communities. I had … Read More →
It’s that time of the year again! For some, the Christmas season is a time of joy, peace, and celebration. For others, it’s a time of managing expectations, sensory overload, and hectic schedules. For most of us, it’s a mix of all of the above! Today on the blog we feature some helpful resources for churches and families navigating the holidays. … Read More →
In the act of writing White Picket Fences, Amy Julia points with humility and gentleness to a kind of confession that refuses to only be part of the problem. It is possible to both acknowledge complicity and privilege and to work towards a better, more truthful, future. … Read More →
In his honest wrestling with God along a journey of surprise, despair, faith, and aching joy, Jason leads his readers through key Biblical truths, important psychological reflections, and deeply personal insights. … Read More →
We must “help [faith communities] understand that we are focusing on participation, inclusion, and belonging as a way to empower, not pity. That we want people to develop roles that make them important and valuable to communities. So we’re looking for connections, not avoidance, for support, not stigma” … Read More →
For many families who experience disabilities, getting away for rest and relaxation might seem like an inconceivable goal – especially if parents are hoping to take a break without the kids. At the Inclusion Fusion Live! conference in Cleveland this spring, Jonathan McGuire from Hope Anew shared 5 simple ways to take “Five-minute vacations” to help refresh your care. … Read More →
Earlier this week, an excellent video on “Disability in Heaven” was shared by the Center for Philosophy of Religion at the University of Notre Dame. You will find the video posted below. In it, philosopher and author Kevin Timpe wrestles through some of the questions around whether people will carry their disabilities into heaven. A range of … Read More →
Adolescence is a challenging time for many young people, and with today’s complexities – in part due to rapid technological advancement and 24/7 connectivity – it has only become an increasingly tricky season of life to navigate. Add to this the potential social stigma, barriers, and support needs that come with visible and invisible disabilities and mental health challenges, and it is no wonder that youth pastors and practitioners are hungry for relevant training and resources in this area. … Read More →
Did you know that January 18th to 25th, 2018 is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity? Our friend Thomas Hentrich over at EcumenAbility has prepared a helpful resource for celebrating this week with people with disabilities. … Read More →
Exciting training opportunities from Tyndale University College & Seminary and Emmanuel College are quickly approaching. Join in person or online. … Read More →