Jason Le Shana, program director of the Baylor Collaborative on Faith and Disability, spoke at a Baylor University workshop on Sept. 17, urging attendees to commit to small steps toward creating a culture of inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Le Shana emphasized that neglecting this group doesn’t reflect God’s heart and negatively impacts the body of Christ. He highlighted the need for churches to consider how disabled individuals can be fully integrated into church life, as changes to church culture, though difficult, are essential.
Creating Change in Church Culture
Le Shana described church culture as a shared set of assumptions that influence group behavior, which often makes change challenging. However, he encouraged churches to make a small, deliberate move toward inclusion. Daniel Moreno of Joni & Friends Texas added that churches must recognize disabled ministry as a command, referencing Luke 14:21-23. Moreno’s work helps churches in Texas serve individuals with disabilities, whom he called the “largest unreached people group in the U.S.”
Overcoming Barriers and Building Inclusion
Moreno pointed to both social and physical barriers that have long existed within churches, as illustrated by the biblical story of Bartimaeus. He explained that churches must evaluate where they stand in five stages of cultural change: unawareness, evaluation, care, friendship, and contribution. Reaching the final stage means disabled individuals are not only present but are also valued contributors to church life.
Simple Steps Toward Lasting Change
Le Shana encouraged attendees to embrace simple actions as a starting point for change, reminding them that even small, faithful steps can make a significant impact in creating a culture of belonging for people impacted by disabilities.
Source:
Disability and Church: Building a culture of belonging
Photo by Jakub Pabis on Unsplash
About Post Author
