Workshops Led by Key Ministry Team at Disability & The Church 2023
Multi-sensory strategies to foster children’s spiritual formation – rev. dr. Karen Roberts & beth Golik
Whether you are in an inclusive classroom setting or providing one-on-one buddy support, we all face the same challenge: we have the biblical mandate to share the Gospel with and foster the spiritual formation of all people, including our students with learning differences. This hands-on workshop will provide multi-sensory strategies to engage children in the spiritual practices of prayer and Scripture memorization. We will explore ways for church and home to work together to foster the spiritual growth of each child. Participants will experience a variety of tools and will receive sample materials to use at church and/or at home.
Preventing Parentification: Strategies for Families and Ministry Leaders – Jolene Philo, Lisa Jamieson & Catherine Boyle
Parentification happens when otherwise well-meaning adults put adult-sized issues on a child’s shoulders. Parents of a child with disabilities who also have children without disabilities are especially vulnerable to dependence on the ‘typical’ siblings in ways that are not age-appropriate or emotionally healthy for those children. In this workshop led by Jolene Philo, Lisa Jamieson and Catherine Boyle, learn the signs of parentification, as well as strategies for prevention and tips for relationship repair. This session will also include practical suggestions for ministry leaders to help parents with children with disabilities parent well.
Finding God’s Ministry Purpose for Your Life: 7 Keys to Identify and Accelerate Your Personal Mission and Ministry – Catherine Boyle
Being a parent of a child with disabilities consumes time, financial resources, and mental and spiritual health. But what if, in your challenges, God has uniquely positioned you to draw wisdom from your family’s life experiences to bless and disciple others? In this session, Catherine Boyle will help you identify some unique factors that form your ministry from God, and how to move from concept to living out His heart’s desire for you.