The inclusion of persons with disabilities in the church

I was honored to sit on a panel to discuss: The inclusion of persons with disabilities in the church for World Disability Day. The panel was diverse, featuring a deaf woman, an albino woman, a blind man, a woman with cerebral palsy, and me, a wheelchair user. While we are from different walks of life, our experiences within church spaces were strikingly similar.

We shared stories of barriers we face in church: I talked about inaccessibility, and, most painfully, the attitude that made me stop going to church for many years. Whenever I went to church I felt more like an outsider than a member. It often felt like people saw my presence in church as a cry for a miracle rather than a desire to worship.

As we spoke, one truth resonated: inclusion isn’t charity; it’s a necessity. The church is meant to reflect the heart of God—a heart that embraces everyone, no matter their abilities. For those of us with disabilities, being included isn’t about seeking pity or special treatment. It’s about being seen, heard, and valued as equal members of the body of Christ.

Inclusion allows us to bring our full selves to the table, through our unique gifts, perspectives, or life experiences, we enrich the church community. And in return, the church becomes a stronger, more compassionate, and more authentic reflection of God’s love.

Accessibility is a big hurdle, many churches lack ramps, elevators, or accessible bathrooms, Many churches also dont have interpreters for the Deaf. But the bigger barrier, as we all agreed on the panel, is the attitude.

Too often, persons with disabilities are seen as objects of charity or, worse, symbols of sin or lack of faith. This can make us feel like we’re walking into spaces where we’re tolerated, not welcomed. And let me tell you, nothing feels lonelier than standing in a room filled with people singing about love while you feel unseen.

What Can Be Done?

1. Ramps, wide doors, accessible seating, and accessible Restrooms should be standard in every church. These changes are not optional—they’re essential.
2. The heart of inclusion lies in how we treat each other. Churches must educate their members to see persons with disabilities as equals, not as people to pity or “fix.”
3. Small changes can make a big difference. Providing sign language interpreters, offering braille hymnals, or simply asking, “What do you need?” can go a long way in making worship accessible.
4. Instead of assuming we’re in church for a miracle, why not assume we’re there for the same reason as everyone else—to grow in faith and community?
5. It starts with conversations like the one we had on that Sunday. Churches must intentionally advocate for inclusion, not just within their walls but in society at large.

After the panel discussion, I felt a mix of emotions. I was encouraged by the openness of my fellow panelists and the audience. Yet, I was reminded of the work ahead. Inclusion isn’t something we can achieve overnight—it’s a journey.

I ask: What kind of church do we want to be? A place where people feel judged and excluded, or one where everyone, regardless of ability, feels they have a seat at the table?

The church should be the one place where no one is left behind. Let’s ensure it truly is. I would love to hear what you have to say about this Topic and Kudos to Elshadai Church for making this happen.

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