Start With Hello: Conversations About Disability

Ryan and Jason talk through some specific scenarios that have, or may, arise in Disability Minsitry as they relate to sex and sexuality. Visit our website for the official show notes and links to all of the resources mentioned.

Starting a 100% integrated model of disability ministry, where people with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of church life, requires intentionality and a shift in mindset compared to traditional programming that sometimes creates separation. We talk through details of why this should be the model and how to make it happen at your church.

The Tale of the Shrinking Toilets is not, contrary to what some may believe, an excuse to talk about toilets. It is a powerful story used to help raise awareness for the need of universal sized changing tables. There is more than meets the eye behind how the book came about and how sales are used to help other churches.

We dive into the types of proms and events you can host, how to get help planning and resources, and what to do after a prom. All of the links mentioned are available on our website.

It is vitally important for men to step up and play a role in disability ministry. In this episode, Ryan and Jason talk through why we need men to participate, ways to get them more engaged in ministry, and how leadership can support these efforts.

It can be overwhelming deciding where to begin with disability ministry curriculum. What series do I start with? Should I plan it out for an entire year or is there a better way? What happens during holidays? We discuss our recommendations on how to get started and longer-term planning for your curriculum.

Does God really love everyone? That’s the simple question this short, heartwarming tale asks as it introduces the beauty of diversity. Gary's book has been in development for many years and was recently published. We chat with Gary about what inspired him to write the book, why it is important, and how churches can use it. Details and where to buy the book can be found here.

One of our most popular episodes to date has been equipping volunteers for disability ministry. In this episode, we take that a step further and dive into some specific scenarios that volunteers will surely encounter while providing what resources can assist.

We all understand how important mission teams can be. In this episode, Gary Spangler and Jason Morrison talk specifics about the critical role that mission teams play at Riverwood Christian Community and what we hope those who come serve can take back with them to their own communities. Visit the blog for all of the links mentioned in this episode.

We have an open and candid discussion about sex and disability ministry. Do churches shy away from this subject? Is it better taught in a class or one-on-one? How do you even start talking about this with your group? We also talk through three real-world scenarios based on incidents Ryan experienced during his time as a disability ministry pastor.

Read over Psalms 139: 14-16 (NIV) and ask yourself: Do you truly believe that? We do. In fact, we believe that disability is beautiful and belongs to everyone. In this episode, Ryan and Jason discuss the origins of DisabilityIsBeautiful.com and why it is one of our favorite resources. For all of the links mentioned in this episode, visit abilityministry.com/blog

In this episode, we discuss all things volunteers. Specifically, how do you train and prepare volunteers for disability ministry, what tools and resources are available to make sure they are biblically grounded, how to prevent burnout, as well as Ryan's top picks for the free resources you should start with. Visit abilityministry.com for quick links to all resources mentioned in this episode.

You have heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression"? This checklist helps you make the best first impression possible.

Download the free First Impressions Checklist here.