I’m honored to have received the opportunity to speak at the 2011 Bioethics Conference and Through the Roof Summit, scheduled for September 15-17, 2011. The conference is cosponsored by Joni and Friends and the Center for Bioethics at Cedarville University.

An impressive assembly of leading experts in the fields of bioethics and pastoral care will provide biblical perspectives on the critical issues shaping the church as it relates to end-of-life and disability ministry. At the same conference, leaders interested in developing a disability ministry, as well as leaders who are just getting started or who have an existing disability ministry will experience the opportunity to choose from 40 workshops by noted authors, professors, researchers, church ministry leaders, and other professionals who bring their expertise to the pressing issues facing people and families affected by disability from diagnosis through all of life’s stages. In addition, participants will be able to visit exhibitors, gather resources and have a time of networking.

Joni Earickson Tada, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Joni and Friends International Disability Center is scheduled to be the keynote and closing speaker.

I’ll be presenting two breakout sessions…one will be on the impact of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) on spiritual development in kids. The second breakout will address what to do when kids demonstrate aggressive behavior at church.

In addition to myself, Key Ministry will also be represented on the program by Dr. Cara Daily, Executive Director of Inner Health Ministries and a member of the Key Ministry Board. Cara is a recognized expert in the consultation, assessment, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders and other special needs. We may have other additions to the conference to announce in coming weeks, so stay tuned.

I’d encourage anyone interested in attending the conference to take advantage of the online registration. The conference is very reasonably priced and likely to sell out quickly. Opportunities are also available to join Joni and the other speakers for a reception and banquet on the evening of September 16.

I’m looking forward to meeting old friends and making new ones at Cedarville University this September 15th-17th!