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Keith Dow shares the story of Greg’s baptism, highlighting his unique identity and faith. The post explores themes of belonging and the acceptance found in faith communities. It shows how God’s presence embraces every person’s story, including those with disabilities.
Not long ago, popular Atlanta pastor and author Andy Stanley tweeted the following:
Greg has red hair and an extra chromosome. He’s got something else as well…https://t.co/u180smnhOg
— AndyStanley (@AndyStanley) September 23, 2016
Challenges of baptism and disability
Baptism and intellectual disability can be a source of questions and concerns for churches and pastors who aren’t sure whether people with intellectual and developmental disabilities fully understand the commitment they’re making. We have covered this topic before in the post “Should we baptize people with intellectual disabilities?” We encourage you to check out the following video for an example of one church that fully embraced Greg’s decision to follow Christ:
Greg introduces himself
“Hello. My name is Greg Cloud. I’m 29 years old. I have red hair, blue eyes and I am right-handed. I also have an extra chromosome. I was born with all of these. Like you I was beautifully made by my God.”
About the Author:
Keith Dow:
Keith Dow, PhD, is a theologian, writer, and credentialed pastor with BIC Canada, serving as Director of Culture and Mission Alignment with Karis Disability Services. His work explores disability theology, Christian caregiving, spiritual life, and the gifts of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He is the author of Formed Together: Mystery, Narrative, and Virtue in Christian Caregiving (Baylor University Press, 2021) and the researcher behind Images of God. His latest peer-reviewed article is “Imaging God Together.” Keith recently completed a term as president of the AAIDD Religion & Spirituality Interest Network. Explore his writing and research at keithdow.com.
Recent Posts:
Keith Dow shares the story of Greg’s baptism, highlighting his unique identity and faith. The post explores themes of belonging and the acceptance found in faith communities. It shows how God’s presence embraces every person’s story, including those with disabilities.
Not long ago, popular Atlanta pastor and author Andy Stanley tweeted the following:
Greg has red hair and an extra chromosome. He’s got something else as well…https://t.co/u180smnhOg
— AndyStanley (@AndyStanley) September 23, 2016
Challenges of baptism and disability
Baptism and intellectual disability can be a source of questions and concerns for churches and pastors who aren’t sure whether people with intellectual and developmental disabilities fully understand the commitment they’re making. We have covered this topic before in the post “Should we baptize people with intellectual disabilities?” We encourage you to check out the following video for an example of one church that fully embraced Greg’s decision to follow Christ:
Greg introduces himself
“Hello. My name is Greg Cloud. I’m 29 years old. I have red hair, blue eyes and I am right-handed. I also have an extra chromosome. I was born with all of these. Like you I was beautifully made by my God.”
