Summer 2011

Toward a More Beautiful Family

The value of special needs to the body of Christ

Here in the Evangelical Free Church of America, we talk a lot about diversity—recognizing our differences and the value they bring. Those of us who grew up in a monocultural environment are more aware than ever of the limited perspective we inherited. And the beauty of broadening, enriching that perspective.

We notice, now, when everyone at the park, the party or the boardroom is just like us. It makes us itch a bit uncomfortably, aware that somewhere else, another park, party or boardroom looks entirely different, and there might be some insight or passion or laughter that we’re missing.

We’re also noticing this in our churches—recognizing that we in the body of Christ might well be missing some of our nuance, our wonder, our beauty because of who’s not with us.

That’s the passion behind this issue of EFCA Today and its focus on special needs. Do we know individuals who live each day with a disability? Do they feel welcomed and honored in our church?

Fundamentally, the act of embracing those with special needs involves getting to know them. Welcoming their insights and contributions. Slowing down long enough to thank God for how He’s created each of us so differently, recognizing our own limitations and yet our contributions.

The first question isn’t, “Does our church have a ministry to those with disabilities?” No, the deeper question to ask is, “Who in the body of Christ has unique needs that, once met, will unleash gifts and abilities we are missing?”

True, special-needs ministry also leads us to talk about handicapped-accessible bathrooms and specialized training. But may it first start with inviting the whole body to come be part of the body.

Toward a More Beautiful Family

Here in the Evangelical Free Church of America, we talk a lot about diversity—recognizing our differences and the value they bring. Those of us who grew up in a monocultural environment are more aware than ever of the limited perspective we inherited. And the beauty of broadening, enriching that perspective.

We notice, now, when everyone at the park, the party or the boardroom is just like us. It makes us itch a bit uncomfortably, aware that somewhere else, another park, party or boardroom looks entirely different, and there might be some insight or passion or laughter that we’re missing.

We’re also noticing this in our churches—recognizing that we in the body of Christ might well be missing some of our nuance, our wonder, our beauty because of who’s not with us.

That’s the passion behind this issue of EFCA Today and its focus on special needs. Do we know individuals who live each day with a disability? Do they feel welcomed and honored in our church?

Fundamentally, the act of embracing those with special needs involves getting to know them. Welcoming their insights and contributions. Slowing down long enough to thank God for how He’s created each of us so differently, recognizing our own limitations and yet our contributions.

The first question isn’t, “Does our church have a ministry to those with disabilities?” No, the deeper question to ask is, “Who in the body of Christ has unique needs that, once met, will unleash gifts and abilities we are missing?”

True, special-needs ministry also leads us to talk about handicapped-accessible bathrooms and specialized training. But may it first start with inviting the whole body to come be part of the body.


Diane J. McDougall has served as editor of EFCA Today since 1997.