Tag Archives: Think Orange

“Thinking Orange”…Family Values: Partnering with parents of kids with disabilities

Nothing is more important than someone’s relationship with God Think of how challenging this principle is to implement on a daily basis for folks in vocational ministry. Imagine how hard this is for parents of kids with disabilities! Based upon the limited data in the research literature, parents of kids with hidden disabilities are more likely to be single parents. Their kids are likely to require far more of their time and attention. Recommended treatments are time consuming and often expensive. In addition to all of the other “idols” that distract us from God in modern life, the day to day needs of kids with hidden disabilities leave parents with less “margin” to pursue their relationship with God. Continue reading

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Thinking Orange: “Warm Hearts”…The family’s role in spiritual development is magnified when kids have disabilities…as well as the church’s role (Part One of Two)

Parents of kids with disabilities are often dragging along quite a bit of baggage. Many of them have their own struggles and limitations that undermine the best of intentions when it comes to their personal spiritual development and the spiritual development of their kids. Follow-through may be difficult for many parents, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t want to. The church plays an invaluable role by walking with them, encouraging them and helping them to take the next step. Continue reading

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What Does it Mean For the Church to be “Light” to a Family Impacted by Disability? (Part One of Two)

I think there’s the potential for “multiple wins” here. The very attributes of the church that best reflect the character of God are those that will draw families of kids with disabilities to the “light.” In order to put the “light” on display to families of kids with disabilities, we get to parade the light in front of lots of other folks who may not otherwise get to see the “light.” Continue reading

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Great Opportunity to Learn More About “Orange”

Here’s a great opportunity for church staff and volunteers serving kids with disabilities to learn more about the “Orange” strategies for family ministry that form the foundation of our Winter blog series. Continue reading

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Winter Blog Series: Applying “Orange” Principles in Ministry to Families of Kids With Hidden Disabilities

After reading “Think Orange,” I concluded that many of the principles discussed in the book are especially relevant as catalysts to spiritual development in kids with more subtle, or “hidden disabilities.” During the lead-up to this year’s Orange Conference, the blog will explore how specific “Orange” principles and perspectives can be applied to ministry with families in which one or more children experience disabilities.
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Posted in Families, Hidden Disabilities, Inclusion, Key Ministry, Parents, Spiritual Development, Strategies | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments