There is a man at my church named Scooter. Scooter is the first person to greet my family every Sunday. He's the first one to get someone a pen or a Bible from the back of the sanctuary. He always offers the seat next to him—and sometimes even his own seat—when the service begins. He stacks chairs, picks up trash, and attends prayer meetings. He is the most faithful (and most visible!) volunteer in our church. He also has a disability.

As members of the body of Christ, we all know how important serving is to the success of our churches. Without Sunday morning volunteers, bulletins wouldn't get printed, parking lots would be chaos, and coffee pots would sit empty. We also all know what it is like when volunteers are in short supply. And when certain members are sidelined, everyone suffers. Members with disabilities likely want the chance to serve, but they may not know where to start.

"Acts of service offer concrete ways for people to put their faith into action. Yet, people with developmental disabilities enjoy few opportunities to serve others; in part, because of attitudinal barriers; limited transportation; or, most likely, they are simply never asked." -Dr. Erik Carter

Here are a few ideas for getting your church started in including individuals with disabilities in Sunday morning service opportunities:

Greeting Team

Sadly, some visitors may not return to a church after their initial visit because no one greeted them. A friendly, "Welcome, hello! We're so glad you're here!" at the door of the church can be the first step to someone hearing and receiving the Gospel. You may have individuals with disabilities in your church who would be the perfect friendly faces to greet people who walk through your doors.

Accessibility Tip! Nonverbal or Nonspeaking members can still be greeters. They can hold visual cards, use a preloaded greeting on their AAC device, or use Sign Language.

Bulletins/Hospitality

Those bulletins aren't going to fold themselves! If someone wants to be of service but doesn't like to be in front of other people, folding bulletins or stocking the coffee station might be great ways for them to serve. These tasks help the entire church and provide opportunities to socialize with other members completing the same activities.

Accessibility Tip! Be sure to have step-by-step instructions and/or a completed example to guide their work.

Worship Team

The worship service itself contains many opportunities for members with disabilities to serve! Reading scripture, helping with sound, running slides, or singing with the worship team are all wonderful ways they can use their gifts. If needed, have a parent or volunteer practice with them before Sunday morning.

Accessibility Tip! For friends reading scripture, be sure to provide developmentally-appropriate materials. Not sure where to start? Awe & Wonder is here to help!

Encouragements for including people with disabilities in serving

You don't need to establish a new program to be inclusive

There are definitely times when an established program is helpful in promoting inclusion. But the good news is that service opportunities within the church are already established! If you can find current volunteers in specific areas who are willing to come alongside a member with a disability, you already have the natural support needed for inclusive service opportunities.

It's a Learning Process

The first time a new person serves, it probably isn't going to be perfect. This is a great chance for the people of your church to practice patience and flexibility. You might even gain some new volunteers for your disability ministry!

We all want to feel purposeful and have the chance to use our gifts and abilities. Finding ways to involve individuals with disabilities in areas of service within the church is a two-way blessing—the church's needs are met and your newly-minted batch of team members feel a deeper connection to their faith and their church home.

My church is a sweeter place because of Scooter’s love to serve. Your church can be, too.

For more ideas, explore our disability ministry curriculum and resources today!