Eight Outreach Events to Target (and Bless) Special-Needs Families:
We see special-needs families as an unreached people group we plan to target. And like missionaries, we are taking the “go and engage” approach instead of just “come and see.”
Five Activities to Target Adults with Disabilities:
These activity ideas are great for older teens and adults with disabilities and anyone in your church looking for social activities.
5 Ways to Advertise Your Disability Ministry Activities
You spend a lot of time planning great inclusion activities and outreaches especially focused to bless families with special-needs in your area. So how do you spread the word so families know they are welcome? Here are five ideas to get you started
5 Details to Include on Your Church Website about Your Disability Ministry
Your church website is the new front door to your church, and if special-needs families can’t find the information they need on the website, they may never make it in your church building.
Steps to Take When a Family in Your Church Receives a Special-Needs Diagnosis
The days after parents hear their child has a disability or special need can be difficult days. They need an anchor to help steady them. Their church should be that anchor.
What Special-Needs Families Wish Their Pastors Knew:
If we could sit down with our pastors and tell them what’s on our hearts, it would include phrases like these: We are lonely. We wish we could do more. We know you can’t control every church members’ reactions to our family, but you do set the example. How you talk about disabilities from the pulpit makes an impact on us. The challenges we face as our children grow up change and evolve.
Special-Needs Ministry Should Minister to the Whole Family:
Special-needs ministry doesn’t only take place in a classroom on Sunday morning. It happens in the parking lot, in the hallway, during the service, and even during the week.
Shining a Light on the Struggles of Shadow Siblings (what churches can do to help):
Shadow siblings don’t have to feel like they don’t matter in our churches. They can know they are loved, appreciated, and cared for, when we take steps to love them with the love we have been given in Christ.
How Churches Can Support Struggling Adoptive Families
Rejoice in adoption and rejoice with adoptive families, but also be sensitive to those who are struggling and love them well.
Tips for Communicating with Special-Needs Parents
In order to communicate with care and compassion, ministry leaders need to understand the five phases of special-needs parenting. In the video below, I give an over view of the phases, share what families need from their church in each phase, and give communication tips that are effective no matter what phase parents are in.
Five Ways Churches Can Strengthen the Marriages of Special-Needs Parents:
I’m thankful the scary divorce stats we hear aren’t true when it comes to parents of kids with disabilities, but churches have a major role to play in helping these couples be as healthy as possible. Where can your church start to serve them?
