Inspired by a conversation with Sandra Peoples, this podcast episode highlights the essential role of disability ministry in the church. It explores the theological foundation for inclusion and offers practical, low-cost strategies for creating accessible environments that serve the whole family. Sandra’s heart is for every church to welcome every family, ensuring that all can hear and respond to the gospel.
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Quick Links
Find more resources at https://www.accessible-church.com/.
Building Accessible Churches: A Conversation with Sandra Peoples
(Re)Introducing Sandra Peoples
Sandra Peoples, one of our Podcast Co-Hosts here at Key Ministry, is a disability ministry consultant, author, professor, and mom to a son with autism. She brings her deep personal and professional experience to her new book, Accessible Church, a guide for churches to better include individuals and families affected by disability.
“What we believe informs what we do. And I think you have to have a why for disability ministry.” – Sandra Peoples
The Heart Behind Accessible Church
Why Sandra Wrote the Book
– Grew up with a sister with Down syndrome and now parents a son with autism.
– Experienced firsthand the difference between inclusive and exclusive church environments.
– Wanted to provide practical tools and theological foundations for disability ministry.
A Theology of Disability
Why Theology Matters
– Image of God: Every person is made in God’s image.
– Biblical Foundation: Scripture from Genesis to Revelation addresses disability directly or indirectly.
– Jesus’ Example: He welcomed the marginalized and showed compassion and inclusion.
“We can’t fix every functional aspect, but we can overcome social barriers in our churches.”
Understanding Disability in Church
– Functional Model: Involves actual impairments (e.g., speech, mobility).
– Social Model: How society (and churches) respond to disabilities (e.g., exclusion, lack of interaction).
From Theory to Practice: Real-Life Application
A Story That Matters
Sandra shares a personal story about her older son, David, who felt embarrassed and behind—not at school, but at church. His experience shows how churches can unknowingly harm when they fail to adapt to learning differences.
Key Takeaways
– Disability ministry isn’t only for those with visible or profound disabilities.
– It’s about inclusion, understanding, and simple, tangible steps.
Overcoming Common Church Excuses
Churches often say:
– “We don’t have the people.”
– “We don’t have the space.”
– “We don’t have the money.”
– “We don’t know how.”
Sandra encourages leaders to push past excuses just like the friends who lowered the paralyzed man through the roof to meet Jesus (Luke 5).
Simple Tools, Big Impact
Accessible Doesn’t Mean Expensive
– Visual schedules
– Noise-reducing headphones
– Buddy systems
– Calm-down corners
– Fidgets and sensory tools
“We’re not talking about elaborate tools. We’re talking about laminated paper and love.”
Disability Ministry Is Family Ministry
The Whole Family Is Affected
– If one family member with a disability isn’t included, the whole family may stay home.
– Siblings thrive when churches see them as individuals, not just as “the sibling of.”
“It’s a gospel-sized ripple effect.”
Community Outreach and Gospel Advancement
How Churches Can Reach Families
– Clearly advertise your disability ministry on your website.
– Use simple, direct language like “special needs” or “disability ministry.”
– Offer respite nights, support groups, or sensory-friendly events.
Evaluating Accessibility
Start By Asking: Who’s Missing?
– Compare local school district IEP/504 stats to your children’s ministry demographics.
– Look for kids who may need invisible accommodations.
– Survey parents quietly and compassionately.
Action Steps for Churches
1. Reach Out to families already attending and ask what they need.
2. Start Small with a buddy system and one visual schedule.
3. Train Volunteers using resources like Sandra’s book and ministry intensives.
4. Update Your Website to reflect your welcome.
5. Keep Learning—embrace humility and a posture of gospel-centered service.
Sandra’s Hope: Every Church, Every Family
“I want every family that wants to attend church to find a church that is ready to welcome them.”
Sandra’s dream is bold but achievable—with theological conviction and practical steps, any church can grow more accessible.
Get the Book + Learn More
🎥 Go to the book’s website. Find extra resources and videos for each chapter
📱 Follow Sandra: @SandraPeoples on Instagram, Facebook, and X