As someone who works in a Christian ministry serving people with disabilities, I’m thankful that this “Emmaus road” is open to us. While sometimes God works in impressive, earth-changing ways, it is a relief to know that he can also work through our small acts of coming alongside people on their journey.
When I first really dug into exploring Jesus in the Gospels, I encountered someone who offered love, liberation, and wholeness to people who needed it in the midst of structures and systems that didn’t always do the same.
The long-term goal of my project EcumenAbility© is nothing more than to raise the profile of inclusion of people with disabilities to the same level as other social justice issues. Churches and congregations can thus take a leading role in improving the lives of people with disabilities in their present life and give a positive example to the general society.
Carly is the youngest of our three adult children. She is now 21 years old and has Angelman Syndrome. Carly’s life has grown my faith and provided inspiration for much of my writing. Jesus, Let’s Talk explores the very personal and natural ways we express ourselves with God, no matter what our abilities are to communicate.
I hope this post is encouraging to people who are wary of helpers without qualifications being involved in their care or that of a loved one. There are blessings that come from simply doing life together in an informal way; necessary skills can be taught to all kinds of people.
There is a lot to be learned from the community of Vedder Terrace in Chilliwack, British Columbia... The members whom I met shared a lot about their lives. They told me about the community events which they enjoy at the clubhouse, shared community meals three times per week, movie nights and other events that people who do not live at Vedder Terrace can take part in.
The quality of life for many people with disabilities is lower than it could be if more wheelchair manufacturers, occupational therapists and medical supply vendors made and sold products that effectively promoted the future of full societal participation.
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 [...]
Sometimes God provides needed support through unexpected people in unexpected places.
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.
