Over the last couple of weeks, we've talked about some realities of starting a new school year or year or ministry. It's exciting, it's fun, but it can also be overwhelming. In keeping with that theme, over the next two weeks, we'll talk about what church leaders want parents to know and what parents want church leaders to know.

Today, we are sharing the perspective of ministry leaders!

When I worked in church disability ministry, it could sometimes feel like there was a disconnect between parents and the church. Now, as a parent and pastor's wife, I can see that disconnect happening through a different lens. But on both sides, I've noticed one very important detail:

Everyone has the best interest of the children and ministry in mind.

That can be hard to feel sometimes, though, right? There are policies to uphold, curriculum units to work through, calendars to fill…all while sharing the Gospel and shepherding hearts!

So, what do ministry leaders want parents to know?

Ministry Leaders Want the Best for Your Child
(and for you)!

Even as a former ministry leader myself, I have to say, I have never been more thankful for pastors, directors, or volunteers than I am now that I am a parent. It is such a tender thought that there are people in my church--my friends and neighbors--who thoughtfully consider the spiritual formation of my children each and every Sunday.

Cassie, a subscriber, told us: “Don’t be afraid to ask us for what your kid needs! We’re here to help, and if there’s a specific goal you want to work towards we can do that!”

Ministry leaders want your family to have a great experience at church, and most churches are going to do their very best to make that happen. Ashley, another subscriber, said, “We want to work with you to provide a safe, loving, and meaningful environment for them to access and respond to the gospel.”

Churches May Have Unexpected Limitations

Ministry leaders want to do everything they can for your child, but it is important to note there are certain limitations of churches that may be unique from perhaps a school or home setting.

For example, my church was built before ADA compliance was a requirement, so the bathrooms in the children's area have steps inside the bathroom (weird, right?). This would make taking a child with a physical disability to the bathroom very hard. But not without solutions! So while our church does not have solutions in place for this right now, if the occasion ever came up where we needed to purchase a removable ramp for the children's bathroom areas, it could be done. We didn't create this barrier on purpose, but it is a barrier that exists.

Sometimes churches simply can't remove every barrier, but we can work together to find solutions and adaptations to make it possible for your family to worship together and hear the good news of God's Word.

Communication is Crucial…and Welcome!

Ministry is not done in a vacuum. It impacts children, families, and the church as a whole. Leaders want parent feedback! Parents, if there is a need or a concern, I am sure the leaders in your church would be open to hearing it. And don't be afraid to share information about your child's behavioral struggles! Abby, a disability ministry leader, shared with us on Instagram, “The more info the better! The behavior doesn't scare us. We want to be prepared.” Communication helps everyone be more prepared!

And don't forget the power of positive feedback. Ministry leaders and volunteers are often working behind the scenes in ways you might not see. Letting them know you appreciate them and care about them might be just what they need one Sunday morning.

I am so grateful for the local church. It is the sweetest picture of the family of God. But just like any earthly family, it's imperfect. It requires care, attention, and communication. Whether you are a ministry leader, volunteer, parent, or ministry participant, you are a known and needed piece of the Body of Christ. Thank you for being here!