disabilities and abilities

Global Health
Bishop Mande Muyombo (right) helps a woman settle into her new adapted bicycle in Kamina, Congo. At left are lay leader Kiluba Yolola Elie and Pastor Joseph Kasongo Mukolomone. The United Methodist Church distributed 97 bicycles to people living with disabilities in the North Katanga Conference. The initiative is funded by United Methodist partners in the North Georgia Conference. Photo by Yamba Kisonga Barthélémy, UM News.

Adapted bicycles break barriers, enrich lives in Congo

The United Methodist Church provides mobility assistance to people with disabilities in Kamina, including members of other religious denominations.
Local Church
Volunteer Kalvin Davis helps a family select a tree from the artificial “tree farm” at Faith Community Church of Coopersville, Michigan, a United Methodist congregation. Video image by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

Artificial tree farm brings joy to families with special needs

United Methodist ministry provides a unique experience for families living with sensory issues, allergies or physical disabilities.
Mission and Ministry
Powell Richardson and his family sit in a special row in the sanctuary of Church Street United Methodist in Knoxville, Tenn. Church Street recently added designated spaces to better accommodate persons in wheelchairs. Photo from video by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

Why disability inclusion matters

What does the United Methodist Book of Discipline say about persons with disabilities?
Mission and Ministry
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.

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