Posts tagged Disability Ministries
Opening Doors Wider: ELCA Releases National Disability Ministry Report

A new report from ELCA Disability Ministries highlights how congregations across the country are expanding access and welcome to people with disabilities—and where challenges remain. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 10 churches, the report outlines successes, barriers, and recommendations for a more inclusive church. This is a vital read for leaders seeking to reflect God’s radical welcome in real, practical ways. Click here for more.

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Worship Without Barriers: New Resources for the Blind and Visually Impaired

The ELCA Disability Ministries team has released new worship resources for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or print-disabled. Free tools such as refreshable Braille eReaders, talking-book players, and access to the Evangelical Lutheran Worship in electronic Braille and large-print formats are now available. Listen to an insightful interview with Braille proofreader Terry Gorman, and explore accessible editions of the Bible and Martin Luther’s Small Catechism. Click here to read the full article and access the full list of resources.

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Teaching Disability Theology: Forming Church Leaders for an Inclusive Future

A recent May term course brought together seminary students across ELCA institutions to explore a theology of disability and the practical work of building accessible, anti-ableist ministry. Through models of disability, disability justice history, inclusive worship practices, and leadership by those with lived experience, the course offered powerful formation for future church leaders.

From dynamic guest speakers to real-life case studies, the experience highlighted both the urgent need and hopeful promise of churches committed to inclusion. Click here to read the full reflection at ELCA.org.

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Funding Available Now: ELCA Disability Ministry Grants Open Through July 31

Applications are now open for the ELCA Disability Ministry Grants, with up to $35,000 in total funding available for 2025. Individual ministries may apply for grants up to $10,000 through July 31. Projects must demonstrate active engagement with people with disabilities and align with one or more core goals of the Disability Ministry. To learn more and access the application, click here.

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Welcoming Justice-Focused Leaders to the ELCA Disability Ministries Team

The ELCA Disability Ministries Advisory Team welcomes two new members: Pastor Mack Patrick of the Northern Illinois Synod and Pastor Mary Ann Harrison of Altadena, California. Both bring decades of lived and pastoral experience, fierce advocacy for inclusion, and a deep commitment to justice for people with disabilities. Their leadership marks an exciting new chapter in the church’s call to be a body where every member is seen and valued. To read more about these leaders and their vision, click here.

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Three Mosaic Volunteers Exemplify the Meaning of National Volunteer Appreciation Week

It’s National Volunteer Week, a week-long celebration that recognizes and thanks volunteers for their contributions that positively impact their communities. Three Mosaic volunteers, Joyce Finnell, Pastor Rachel Thorson Mithelman and Tonya Bagwell, describe their experiences giving back. The post Three Mosaic Volunteers Exemplify the Meaning of National Volunteer Appreciation Week appeared first on Mosaic.

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Mosaic Annual Report: 2025

Mosaic and its Arizona-based subsidiary Soreo continue to provide life-changing support for individuals with disabilities and their families in Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, and Kingman. View a video report for the Grand Canyon Synod here. In their 2025 annual report, learn how this ELCA-affiliated ministry is bringing renewed hope to families, empowering voices once silenced, and inviting congregations into inclusive worship and advocacy through Rejoicing Spirits and Mosaic Allied Voices.

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Why Medicaid Matters: A Q&A with Mosaic’s Cheryl Wicks

Medicaid is the lifeline for thousands supported by Mosaic, a Lutheran-affiliated organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this inaugural Q&A of their “Medicaid Matters” series, Vice President Cheryl Wicks outlines why advocacy is urgent, what’s at stake, and how you can take action—starting with sharing your story and contacting legislators.

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Pride in Earning an Income in Tanzania

The success of Building a Caring Community’s (BCC) annual Disability Festival Celebration this past year was even sweeter with the addition of a guest from the President of Tanzania’s office. While BCC invites a wide range of government officials hoping to gain attention and support for the work they do, this visit was a special honor for all involved. The post Pride in Earning an Income in Tanzania appeared first on Mosaic.

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