Dear to the Heart

Disability Stories

As part of our work, we try to meet with other families in the church where someone has a disability. We do this to learn what's worked other places, and to try to generalize what we've learned on our own to help more people.

Mystery Activities

One family shared that their stake would hold quarterly youth activites, but that the plan for the activity was kept under wraps because youth wouldn't be as likely to come if they knew what was happening.

For people with disabilities, it can take significant planning and preparation just to attend what might seem like a typical activity at the church building. People with autism or anxiety may not feel comfortable coming at all if they don't know what to expect. If it's important to keep the activity a surprise from most of the youth, it still makes sense to share the agenda with ward leaders so they can selectively share it with those members who will have a better experience with a little preparation.

Church Outside of Church

A family shared that their disabled son wasn't comfortable attending class in the church classrooms anymore, and that he'd rather stay at home. The Young Men leaders responded by coordinating with the family and agreeing to hold class in this young man's living room instead of at the church.

Sometimes supporting people with disabilities means thinking outside the box. There are very few absolutes in the church, and in fact the scriptures are chock full of exceptions to people's expectations. When you focus on how to support each individual as a person deserving God's love, you'll find it easier to come up with ideas how to minister to them.

Share Your Story

If you or someone in your family has a disability, please share your experiences using this form to help use gain a broader understanding and to help others learn how we can all improve.