Category Archives: Inclusion

Harmony Hensley: God’s Grace in the Voice Mail

Posted on August 4, 2011 by Dr. G

I listened to the message again and just smiled. I was reminded that sometimes in ministry we get so caught up in the litany of tasks and events that we execute that we lose sight of the real impact they have on those we serve. The Prom isn’t just a party. It’s a night where the playing field is level, the kingdom advances, and a people who have been marginalized and often forgotten are celebrated. So it only makes sense that our friends would begin counting down the days for their next dance the moment the DJ stops the music. They thirst for the same thing you and I do – to belong. Continue reading →

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Shannon Dingle…Simply the Right Thing to Do

Posted on July 24, 2011 by Dr. G

Can we still call ourselves churches if we don’t care enough about others to consider their lives and their needs? Or would it be more accurate to paint over “church” and replace it with “country club” or “social group” instead? Continue reading →

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All Are Welcome

Posted on July 12, 2011 by Dr. G

The team behind All Are Welcome has created an excellent resource and has provided a template for disability advocacy organizations to follow in supporting inclusion of the families they serve at church.
Continue reading →

Posted in Autism, Inclusion, Resources | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Be Not Anxious…Technology as a Ministry Tool for Kids With Anxiety?

Posted on June 23, 2011 by Dr. G

What if churches began to make use of available technology to keep kids who struggle to overcome their anxiety engaged with youth ministry? Could kids who are too shy to attend church or participate in small groups connect with a local church through an online worship experience, coupled with discussion facilitated and monitored by a youth pastor or group leader? Continue reading →

Posted in Anxiety Disorders, Hidden Disabilities, Inclusion, Strategies | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Be Not Anxious…Small Groups, Retreats and Mission Trips

Posted on June 15, 2011 by Dr. G

Today, we’ll continue our look at challenges church participation poses for children and teens with anxiety disorders by looking at several potentially anxiety-inducing experiences…small groups, retreats and mission trips. Continue reading →

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Be Not Anxious…”Doing Church” With Separation Anxiety or Panic Disorder

Posted on June 13, 2011 by Dr. G

Today, we’ll continue our look at challenges church participation poses for children and teens with anxiety disorders by discussing specific situations likely to cause distress for kids with separation anxiety and panic disorder.
Continue reading →

Posted in Anxiety Disorders, Inclusion, Key Ministry, Stories, Strategies | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Challenges Kids With Anxiety Face in “Doing Church”

Posted on June 12, 2011 by Dr. G

A child with significant anxiety will likely face multiple impediments to full participation in the children’s or youth ministry of their local church. The specific thoughts, experiences and situations that create obstacles to participation and growth will be unique to each child, but the list below describes common challenges parents and church staff can anticipate when ministering to children and youth with anxiety. Continue reading →

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Be Not Anxious: The Many Faces of Anxiety in Kids

Posted on June 5, 2011 by Dr. G

Welcome to our Summer Blog Series examining the impact of anxiety disorders on church participation and spiritual development in kids. In today’s post, we’ll look at the different ways in which anxiety disorders occur manifest in kids. Continue reading →

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What Can the Church Do to Help Families of Kids With Mental Illnesses?

Posted on June 3, 2011 by Dr. G

What would you like to see the church do to better serve families of kids with mental illnesses? Aware of any innovative strategies employed by churches or small group within churches that have helped to demonstrate the love of Christ while meeting immediate needs? Please post comments and links below. Continue reading →

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Summer Stuff

Posted on May 29, 2011 by Dr. G

Summer may have arrived (even in Northeast Ohio), but our crew at Key Ministry will hardly be relaxing and taking it easy over the next few months. Continue reading →

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