October is disability awareness month. As Christians committed to ministering to the entire body of Christ, it is important to develop awareness and sensitivity for individuals with special needs. In this teacher training video from Pentecostal Publishing House, Lee Ann Alexander interviews Stephanie Gossard from ABLE Ministries (Accepting, Believing, Loving, and Embracing Individuals and Families with Disabilities). ABLE provides resources, assistance, and training to churches and teachers who minister to those with special needs and disabilities.
Special Needs Ministry
This video addresses one practical (and crucial) application of the Cross: ministering to everyone. Since Jesus went to Calvary for every single person, our classes should minister to all students. With that mission in mind, consider these points:
- Train to minister to students of every background and ability level. This video below provides helpful information to equip us for the mission of reaching all students.
- Adapt your teaching tools. Curriculum is vital to ensure your students get a comprehensive, systematic diet of Scripture. At the same time, you can and should adapt the curriculum to meet the unique needs of your class.
Since Jesus went to Calvary for every single person, our classes should minister to all students.
A sound Bible lesson is provided each week that should serve you well, but tweak the games, activities, and supporting options to fit your group.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Perhaps we’ve viewed teachers as solo experts with all the answers. Let’s put our role in perspective: we are called to work within the structure of the church with others to minister to the body. If you’re not sure how to minister to a student, ask for help. We’re in this together!
Part 1
Part 2
Thank you for making this available. I’m a Sunday School teacher and SpEd teacher. I specialize in functional needs, behavior, social, and life skills. I would like to see a spiritual IEP!
You are welcome. Thanks for the comment. What a ministry you have! We have a spiritual IEP. I will email it to you.
I too am interested in a spiritual IEP. I am somewhat familiar with IEP’s since I have worked as a Sped Para for 7 years. As my church is growing, so does the needs for the students I am teaching and need all the tools I can get. I have an Autistic child I need help on so this is a great resource to guide me to be a better minister to his needs as he is going to be in my class.
Thanks for your comment and interest. An email has been sent to you. Blessings.