disabilities and abilities

Mary Ellis and Steve Richardson conduct a free church disability audit. Steve is chair of the Holston Conference’s Disability Concerns Committee. Photo from video by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

Accessibility audits ensure church’s doors are open to all

The Richardson family’s desire for their son Powell to become a full member of the UMC led to a change in the Book of Discipline that paved the way for others with disabilities to join.

Local Church

A worship service at Fairmont United Methodist Church in Fairmont, Minn. Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Conference.

Developing a signature ministry

A neighbor of the Rev. Jeff Adams inspired a new ministry at Fairmont United Methodist Church in Fairmont, Minn. The church hosted a banquet for developmentally disabled people living in care facilities including a dinner, singing, games and handmade quilts.

General Conference

Sara Martin, her wheelchair pushed by Dan Levine, carries the banner of the Council of Bishops into the opening worship service of the United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, N.C., on April 23. Behind them comes a procession of United Methodist bishops, headed by Bishop Forrest Stith on a motorized wheelchair. Photo by Paul Jeffrey, UM News.

Conference attendees power through mobility challenges

Mobility access is eased for delegates and guests at the church’s decision-making assembly as various aids enable them to participate fully.

Mission and Ministry

Samuel Kasororo stands with mobility aids provided by The United Methodist Church in eastern Congo. Kasororo, a United Methodist father of six, lost his right leg during war in 2006. The gift will enable him to continue his evangelism work, he said. Photo by Philippe Kituka Lolonga, UM News.

Church restores hope, mobility to disabled

The United Methodist Church offers mobility assistance to people living with disabilities in Congo, including refugees and those displaced by war

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