Church and Disability Interview
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School
Crafton Hills College *
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Course
341
Subject
Religion
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
3
Uploaded by jranney0967
Church and Disability Interview
Part 1:
Mark 7:32
discusses the encounter that Jesus has with a deaf man who Jesus heals. They brought to him one who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech. They begged him to lay his hand on him… They were astonished beyond measure, saying, "He has done all things well. He makes even the deaf hear, and the mute speak!" We can see a few principles about what the Bible says regarding those with disabilities through this story. Through this passage, we see that God cares for everyone, including those with disabilities, the world sees disabilities as a punishment, God uses disabilities to magnify His name, Jesus has the power to heal a disability, both
physical and spiritual, and God has heart for those with disabilities and sees them. Through Jesus' interaction, we see that God cares for people with disabilities. Jesus stopped what He was doing and not only spoke to a man who would have been outcast by society but also had a unique encounter with him where He healed him. We see that the world automatically assumes that a disability is a consequence. Through this section of scripture, we also see that God uses disabilities in people
to glorify His name. When someone who has a disability allows God to use their life and
their story, God's word is blessed. Through their weakness, God makes them strong. What is seen as impossible is made possible with God. Jesus took the time to heal this man's physical impairment and healed His soul through their interaction. Through this, we learn that God is more than capable of healing a disability and cares for that individual's heart and soul. God allows disabilities to happen to His power. The healing
he conducts may not always be the way we think it will be done. And lastly, Jesus took the time to interact with this individual. We learn that God has a heart for those with disabilities and sees them even when society does not. Throughout Scripture time and time again, we see how God views disability and the beauty behind them.
Part 2:
For my interview, I interviewed Pastor William Newton at a small home town church, Mountain View Baptist Church regarding the things their church does for special
needs. I learned a lot from my time with him on how the church aims to ensure that those with special needs are cared for, acknowledged, and loved. Mountain View Baptist Church is doing a lot for their elderly congregation and working to be more inclusive. When I asked Pastor Will what priority our church prioritized to persons with various disabilities and what evidence supports that this is a priority, he explained that they specifically offer small groups or Bible studies for adults with special needs. This provides a special curriculum that is tailored towards those with special needs and how they fit into God's mission. People who have special needs are also always welcome and invited to join the congregation. They believe that all people are created in God's image and were known and planned by God. They seek to share God's love as kids learn about God in a nurturing and safe environment. Mountain View Baptist Church is currently working to have those of other needs more involved in the church by creating life groups, support groups, and children's classes tailored to their individual needs. Pastor Will talked about the deaf community
and how they currently have no sign language interpreter on stage during the services to bring in that group of demographic. Pastor Will said this was something that they have thought about for a while and want to get going soon to help serve the deaf population and make Mountain View Baptist Church a place where more people with special needs feel welcome. Pastor WIll also discussed how the layout of the facility was also tailored to those with handicaps. There are ramps to all the buildings with wide
isles to ensure that everyone can get access to the church.
When I asked Pastor Will about our church's efforts to bring persons with disabilities and their families into our fellowship, he explained that they seek to include people with disabilities in all areas of church life. There are the focused ministry settings
mentioned above, but those involved there are also involved in the church at large. He explained that Mountain View Baptist Church desires to have a warm and safe environment where all people feel welcomed, including special needs.
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