Tag Archives: Disability Ministry

Faces of the Movement…Jim Hukill

In this discussion on the Exchange of Presence, Jim will discuss the importance of presence in each other’s lives and, in particular, the ministry of presence within the disability communities’ exchange of life with the church. Finally, he will look briefly at a practical example of what an exchange of presence looks like in the inclusive church. Continue reading

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Faces of the Movement…Chris Nelson

Leaders in the disability community are beginning to explore the use of available technologies to minster to more individuals and more families more effectively. Chris Nelson will be providing a primer in the use of technology in inclusion ministry in his upcoming presentation Technology and Special Needs Ministry. Continue reading

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Faces of the Movement…Amy Jacober

In Amy’s presentation, she’ll expound upon her observation that many people find after volunteering with people with disabilities that their own faith not only is strengthened but flourishes. What may begin as a hesitant agreement to “serve others” becomes a life changing experience for all involved. This is good news for those recruiting leaders who may be reluctant thinking that they either not qualified or fearful of what it may do to their faith.
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Guest Blogger: Amy Dolan

Discovering our calling requires that we listen to God’s voice, receive feedback from others, and take note of the patterns in our lives. For Amy, her calling is to care for church leaders who lead children in the church. She’s continually heard God’s voice on this, even on the days she most doubts herself and feels tempted to pursue a new career path. God doesn’t let this her calling go, ever, instead asking her to accept opportunities to live this out. Continue reading

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Faces of the Movement…Nella Uitvlugt from Friendship Ministries

Churches need to plan for ministry to adults with intellectual disabilities. In Nella’s talk, viewers will learn how church members can walk alongside adults with intellectual disabilities, creating an environment of mutual growth in their faith journey together. Continue reading

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Mom, I feel like CINDERELLA! Guest Blog from Cindi Ferrini

Sometimes it takes the mirror of reality for us to stop and change our course. That comment did just that for me. I became keenly aware of the fact that she needed to be a kid. I know I didn’t expect her to “take over” my job of caring for our son with special needs, but I was happy for her help, and at that moment I could see I’d lost the ability to see that I was asking too much. Continue reading

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Faces of the Movement: Ann and John Holmes

We are still figuring out how to “market” this vision to build a church committed to ministry to special needs individuals and their families. We have done some of this right as we are finding our way. We have made mistakes. There is a two-pronged focus of welcoming special needs individuals and their families while also reaching out to more “typical” individuals and families. In our culture it is difficult to sell more “typical” parents with more “typical” children on what a huge blessing participating in a church with this vision can and will be. Continue reading

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Faces of the Movement…Mike Woods of First Baptist Orlando

As I read through Deut. 6:4-7, Psalm 78, and the central focus of the books I mentioned, I was reminded that as a parent I’m the one that God holds primarily responsible for my boys’ spiritual development. My problem was that as a father to three boys on the autism spectrum, I had become so focused on their social, emotional, academic, and communication needs that I had been neglecting their spiritual needs. Continue reading

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Cara Daily…Do I have to have surgery to open my heart to Jesus?

Cara’s presentation for Inclusion Fusion 2012 will be Do I Have to Have Surgery to Open My Heart to Jesus? In her interview, Cara will discuss how to present the Gospel to children with autism. Continue reading

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What I learned about Internet ministry…

A couple of years ago, I experienced a very clear sense that God planned for our Key Ministry team to pioneer the use of technology to reach families of kids with disabilities who aren’t currently served by a local church. I’ve also had a strong sense of conviction that we’re to continue to pursue strategies for helping churches welcome and serve kids with “hidden disabilities” and their families…kids who in most cases wouldn’t be thought of as “disabled” or as having “special needs”, but have issues with anxiety, attention, self-control or sensory processing that make it difficult for themselves or their family members to fully engage in and participate in traditional church activities and environments. I’ve been thinking about how online ministry options might help churches more effectively serve families of kids with disabilities that don’t involve significant physical or intellectual impairment. Continue reading

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