Churches can uniquely serve the needs of the community
At Sacred Ground we believe that all people deserve a chance to thrive in any situation. Church is no exception. For individuals with special needs, churches can provide an environment that fosters love, belonging and equal opportunities to grow in the love of Christ.
These families may face challenges that your other church members don’t have to contend with.
Limited options for church facilities that meet the physical requirements of individuals with disabilities.Church leaders who have limited understanding of disabilities and the impact they can have on the entire family unitLimited resources for individuals to thrive spiritually in their church environmentThe best ways for your church to support these families are also the most straightforward.
Build Relationships
We believe relationships are foundational to helping individuals and families with disabilities thrive. Therefore, one of the first steps in fostering this type of environment at church is to get to know the people in your church who have a family member with a disability.
Ask Questions
In our experience, individuals with disabilities often feel a lack of connection and belonging because others are afraid to ask what they might need. Because all people are different, there is no specific script. What helps one individual thrive might not help the next family. Asking families what could enhance their experience in the church setting can begin the process of creating an environment of love and belonging for all people.
Build Awareness and Be Open to Learning
One of the reasons it is so hard to love those who are different from us is that we don’t understand one another. If churches can provide an environment that has a simple awareness of those with disabilities and what they might need, that is a great first step in providing a place for all to thrive. Remaining teachable and working toward ongoing education on the topic of disability can bring unity and a strong sense of belonging to those with disabilities and their families.
Sacred Ground can help you make your church a place where people with disabilities flourish.
Take the first step
Call or email Sacred Ground for more information. We would be glad to meet with you in person to discuss the best next steps to creating a church environment where all people can thrive.