Mobility and Ability..

I believe in a God who affirms the participation of all God's children in worship, especially those who have been neglected by society and who often struggle to find their place in the world. It seems that though other institutions (schools, hospitals, the job market) exclude people with mental ability and mobility issues, the church ought to be the place where they encounter only affirmation, hospitality, and inclusion.

Yet, this is difficult.

As future church leaders, educators, members of the body of Christ, we will encounter those whose abilities are different than our own, and who may need modifications or assistance to participate in church life. But how does a congregation enable people with mental or physical disabilities to be full participants in our communities? Does making a statement about it do the trick? Is making a special wheel chair accessible section in the back row of the sanctuary enough?

Last week, a group of panelists from diverse worship communities shared the ways that their churches tackle the inclusion of all members. Panelists shared helpful ways to make Christian Education sessions and worship space more inclusive. Additionally, Mark Crenshaw of Interfaith Disability Connection compiled a helpful a resource list that can be picked up in the Office of Student Programming. Perhaps the two most important things that I learned from the panel were said by church leaders who were also the parents of children with mental disabilities.

One was this same idea that I've already mentioned... the idea that people with mental ability and mobility issues face so much opposition and struggle in the rest of the world that churches who work to welcome and make life easier on their disabled members take great burdens from them. This panelist also affirmed that a minister and congregation who are willing to ask what the families and members with ability issues need to fully participate is one of the greatest blessings.

Another meaningful comment was made by an Episcopalian minister. He affirmed the need for the church to see people with ability issues as vehicles for divine grace and blessing, rather than disorderly or alien members of the group who are only tolerated. This offers opportunity to expand and encourage more participation in worship of those whose bodies or minds work a bit differently than the majority of other church members.

Hm. I had a lot to think about after the panel...

What do you think? With these two mentalities in mind, is your church fully inclusive of those with ability issues?

Today's post was written by Elizabeth Wilson Harris. Click here to read denominational statements or here to find resources about this issue.