Ministering to Students with Special Needs | An Interview with Stephanie Gossard

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.

3. 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