It’s the small things that make the difference. For a church lacking in financial resources and volunteer manpower, the idea of starting or growing a special needs ministry can feel overwhelming. That is understandable! Disability inclusion does have a learning curve. And coordinating the individual-focused details of accommodation requires dedicated time. But the good news is that most churches can do small things to make a big impact in families affected by special needs.
The most innovative and resourceful churches are finding ways to serve families affected by special needs while simultaneously providing an experiential learning opportunity for other church members. In honor of Easter, BuildFaith.org is running an article I wrote about Shades Mountain Baptist Church (Birmingham, AL) and their Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt. There are so many things I love about the story shared in the linked article…not the least of which was the fact that typical children were interacting with and learning from the participants with special needs.
Be sure to read BuildFaith.org’s article for a number of creative ways a church can serve individuals affected by special needs while providing an experiential learning opportunity for church members without a disability. Churches can fulfill multiple objectives when they develop a family ministry event with special needs outreach and inclusion in mind. Don’t miss the list of ideas for family ministry events at the bottom of the story!
To read more about Shades Mountain Baptist Church’s “Hand-in-Hand” Special Needs Ministry, click here.
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Happy Easter! ~ Without Christ we are all morally disabled. In Christ, we are all whole. ~ Amy Fenton Lee
