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"
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.
(In short, you should come and serve at Christian Horizons Family Camp with people who experience disabilities! You can learn more and apply here: www.christian-horizons.org/familycamp) Jim and son Steven enjoy tubing [Read More]
In the winter of 1999, I found myself on a Greyhound bus travelling from Three Rivers, Michigan to Richmond Hill, Ontario. I was moving to L’Arche Daybreak, one of the many communities of people considered intellectually disabled and nondisabled who share life and faith together. A little excited and a little frightened, I went looking for Christian community and a way to live the Gospel. I wound up finding both those things – and a whole lot 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 [Read More]
In 1985 the CRC pledged “to be the caring community according to I Corinthians 12, paying special attention to the needs and gifts of people with physical, sensory, mental, and emotional impairments,” and committed to removing physical, architectural, communication, and attitudinal barriers “in order to use the gifts of all people in our life together as God's family.”
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.
I share my story, not because I need to be heard, but because people still haven’t noticed how hard it is for some bodies to be in a church building, or participate in corporate worship services or activities.
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.
Exciting training opportunities from Tyndale University College & Seminary and Emmanuel College are quickly approaching. Join in person or online.