Disability ministry has dramatically evolved over decades, shifting from institutionalization and separation to comprehensive inclusion recognizing every person's value as part of the body of Christ.
• Statistics show the US population with disabilities has increased from 10-12% in the 1960s-80s to 26% today
• Historical treatment often included institutionalization, hiding people with disabilities, and devaluing their lives
• True inclusion requires addressing physical, social, and spiritual needs—not just installing ramps
• Biblical perspective teaches that those who seem weakest are actually "indispensable" to the body of Christ
• Modern approaches include sensory accommodations, education, advocacy, and community engagement
• Our value comes from our Creator, not from our abilities or limitations
• Despite progress, over 80% of Americans with disabilities remain outside church walls
For deeper dives into these topics and more, check out indispensable-people.com and visit Amazon to purchase the books "The Indispensable Kid" and "Gospel Accessibility and the Indispensable People."
