Creating a Church Where Everyone Belongs

Creating a Church Where Everyone Belongs

It’s no surprise that I eventually became a teacher, working in inclusive classrooms where children with diverse abilities learned side by side. Later, I became a mom, got deeply connected to my church, and—as often happens when you volunteer a lot—joined the staff. I served as a preschool leader, children’s pastor, and multi-campus ministry leader. I’ve had so many wonderful days leading kids, parents, and volunteers. But one of the hardest days came not as a leader but as a church attendee.

Finding KiND with Kari Baker: Podcast EP 136

Finding KiND with Kari Baker: Podcast EP 136

Elaina sits down with Kari Baker, author of Finding KiND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences, and talks about special needs parenting, autism spectrum, and supporting other families on the same journey.

What Pediatric Cancer Taught Me

What Pediatric Cancer Taught Me

Our first day on the ninth floor, the doctors never said, "Your child has cancer." You know those childhood cancer commercials that tug at your heart? Never happened. My husband received a phone call that confirmed a biopsy, but once we were on the oncology floor, the word cancer was never uttered. Medical textbook words were used, and the rush was definitely on. We knew exactly what was happening without ever being explicitly told in those basic words. 

Help for Planning 2025: Podcast EP 135

 Help for Planning 2025: Podcast EP 135

It’s February, and we’ve all somewhat settled into 2025 and are ready to look ahead to what the year will bring. To help you prepare for your church’s steps of accessibility and inclusive events, we’ve created a Ministry Planning Calendar! In this episode, Sandra Peoples will walk you through ideas for planning ahead and praying for what God will do in 2025.

Supporting Families Affected by Disability with Rachael VerMeulen from A Little Extra Love: Podcast EP 134

Supporting Families Affected by Disability with Rachael VerMeulen from A Little Extra Love: Podcast EP 134

Elaina Marchenko sits down with Rachael VerMeulen from A Little Extra Love Ministries to talk about the reality for families affected by special needs, the need for disability support in Colorado, and what Rachael will be sharing at Disability & the Church Conference.

3 Ways to Make Your Church More Welcoming for Neurodivergent Kids

3 Ways to Make Your Church More Welcoming for Neurodivergent Kids

The church is a place for everyone, yet for many families with neurodivergent children, attending church events or services can be a challenging experience. Children with sensory and communication differences may need unique accommodations to feel comfortable, included, and valued. This season, as your church plans special services and activities, consider these three simple yet impactful ways to create a more welcoming environment for neurodivergent kids and their families.

Night to Shine, What You Need to Know: Podcast EP 133

Night to Shine, What You Need to Know: Podcast EP 133

Larah Roberts sits down with Beth Golik and talks about the annual Night to Shine Event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Beth gives a peek into what the event looks like and also shares how your church can prepare and host one of these events in your city!

Looking Back, Looking Ahead with Andrea Roseman from Access Ministry: Podcast EP 132

Looking Back, Looking Ahead with Andrea Roseman from Access Ministry: Podcast EP 132

Elaina sits down with Andrea Roseman from Access Ministry to discuss the wins of 2024, the changes she wants to make in 2025, and the way the Lord is working in and through Access Ministry.

Your Ministry Wins from 2024 & Ministry Opportunities in 2025: Podcast EP 131

Your Ministry Wins from 2024 & Ministry Opportunities in 2025: Podcast EP 131

Sandra Peoples shares praise reports from churches across the country as we celebrate what God is doing through accessible churches. She also shares the biggest challenges churches say they are facing in the new year and lists resources to help with each challenge.