In First Corinthians, Paul wrote about how our churches are not whole without all parts of the body being present. Everyone is equally important and valuable. We should all should be encouraged to hear the Word of God.

Even though religious organizations in the U.S. are not obligated to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, there are many ways your church can support the disabled and include them as a welcome member of the body of Christ. But first, let's identify who the disabled are. The disabled are unable to perform one or more natural activities due to physical or mental impairments.

Disabilities may come to us in varying degrees of limitations. We may become disabled because of our genetics, through disease, by accident, or with age. It is likely that we will all have to deal with a disability at some point in our lives, whether it is a loved one or ourselves. Our churches should try to accommodate as many needs as each church has.

Those who have serious illnesses like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy or multiple sclerosis struggle daily with little hope to improve their quality of life. As mobility diminishes, they may have to rely on wheelchairs or other people to carry them. If you are disabled or live with someone who is, you are more acutely aware that many situations may be uncomfortable or unwelcoming.

If you suddenly become a caregiver to a sick child or parent, it can be an upsetting reality that the church you love does not (or will not) accommodate your particular needs. To an able-bodied person, the church in the photo at right looks warm and friendly. A disabled person has another perspective entirely. How will I get in? And what obstacles will I have once I make it in?

Take a few minutes to answer these 12 questions. This is a simple way to evaluate how your church might be able to make some improvements to enable the disabled.

Physical accessibility: Wheelchairs, walkers and crutches

  • Do you have dedicated seating for the disabled?
  • Can wheelchairs and walkers maneuver throughout the campus and sanctuary?
  • Do the stairs have railings and are they sturdy?

Visibility: Elderly, sight-impaired and blind

  • Is the font large enough to read on the directional signs?
  • Are hymnals, bulletins or any other materials available in braille?
  • If you use large screens to follow along with the music, are they visible from all points?

Audibility: Elderly, hearing-impaired and deaf

  • Does your church have a hearing loop system?
  • Are hearing aids available during services and other events?
  • Is someone available to translate the service in sign language?

Special needs

  • Does your church serve communion to those who cannot leave their seats?
  • Are there childcare services offered for special needs children?
  • Do you have support groups for families coping with children with special needs or mental illness?

Caring for the caregivers

Caregivers for the disabled should be especially applauded and not overlooked. Adult children who care for aging parents or parents who care for a severely handicapped child can find themselves feeling isolated. It helps to know you are not alone and the church should be there for them.

Church administrators may not intuitively know all of the needs your members may have. So, encourage them to create support groups and give them the tools to reach out.

Here are a few ideas for support groups your church may want to start: