Disability Ministry

This course will explore the problem of evil, suffering, and disability in the world. In this class, students will gain a deeper understanding of the disability community and a biblical perspective on suffering. This course will help students formulate an informed and compassionate response for entering into the suffering and successes of others.

This course will be taught from a social perspective, enhancing approaches to work directly with individuals with disabilities. By reflecting on the historical perspective of disability services in the US, students will develop knowledge and competence in providing direct care to people with disabilities. Emphasizing advocacy and social justice for people with disabilities will prepare the student to pursue both career and ministry opportunities. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own assumptions of disability, applying a biblical approach to their understanding.

This course focuses on disability through the lifespan, from birth to adulthood. Special attention will be given to exploring common acquired, congenital, and age-related disabilities. Models and trends of disability services will be examined. Students will also explore the specific approaches for various age groups.

This course is designed to provide children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to participate in physical activities in the least restrictive environment. It presents methods for advocating for appropriate activities, addresses health-related issues, and teaches how to modify activities to enable participation for all.

This first of four practice course offerings will introduce students to the field of disability services. The overall purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to develop knowledge, skills, and experience working with individuals with disabilities in a human services context. The student will complete an experience in a disability service setting, shadowing a service worker for a minimum of 50 hours during the course of this semester.