Disability Ministries

Disability ministry affirms that people with disabilities are full participants in the life of the church. John Wesley’s emphasis on practical divinity calls us to live out our faith through acts of justice, inclusion and compassion. Disability ministry is a theological commitment to dismantling physical, social and spiritual barriers that prevent full participation in worship, leadership and fellowship. It reflects the belief that the body of Christ is incomplete without the gifts and presence of all its members.

Disability ministry embodies the Wesleyan call to holiness of heart and life. It challenges the church to move beyond accommodation toward transformation—making accessibility a reflection of God’s inclusive love. By creating spaces where people of all abilities can belong and thrive, we live into the church’s mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

We Belong Grant Program

• Non-dominant racial and ethnic communities
• Young people from non-dominant racial and ethnic communities, particularly those under the age of 30
• LGBTQIA+ people and communities
• People with disabilities and their families

External Contacts

• Rev. Justin Hancock
• Rev. Tom Hudspeth

Resources

• Disability Ministries of The United Methodist Church
• The Feast (Worshipping Community) at Highland Park UMC
• SEEDS (Extension Ministry)
• The Julian Way (Extension Ministry)