The Church and Individuals with Special Needs.
When thinking of an individual with special needs, most think of what school needs should be met, but what about their church needs? Individuals with special needs are people too, who should learn about God and His amazing love and forgiveness. In most cases, these are the most loving, accepting, and charismatic individuals and would make a great addition to a church body. It is very important as Christians to remember these very special people that God has blest with.
Churches need to be aware of individuals needs and do what they can to meet them. My church, Indian Hills Community Church in Lincoln, NE, has several people with various disabilities. The church body, itself, has always been very supportive and accepting of these individuals. I have never seen anyone look down upon them or make fun of them. Most everyone is willing to help and do what he or she can to be a servant of God.
God blesses everyone with different gifts and in this church many have a heart of compassion and mercy. They are willing to do whatever is needed to help someone else. There is a committee, if you will, that plans and prepares meals for people that have trouble doing so. Some are willing to drive a van to pick up individuals that can drive to church, while others are just there to be a friend, someone to talk to. .
All of the individuals sit through and listen to the same sermon as everyone else, much like full inclusion in the classroom. While limited to seating, there are people that sign for the deaf, places for wheelchairs to fit, and even benches outside the sanctuary for those who may make noises or can't sit still. It may be hard for some of these individuals to grasp what the pastor is saying, so special bible studies are planned to meet just their needs through out the week. Not only do the people have to be willing to help and make it possible for people with special needs to grow in their faith, the building itself has to meet their needs as well.
