Friday, December 21, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 21 December 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Pecometh Deaf Camp
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1808.html
-
16 Easy Ways to make a church more accessible
https://beckiewrites.com/2018/12/17/16-easy-ways-the-church-can-be-more-accessible-to-people-with-disabilities/
-
A wide-ranging talk with much to think about for preaching and pastoral care
https://youtu.be/BrY9YqKiSrw
-
We often learn about grief and loss in pastoral care classes, but rarely does it touch on pet loss. Why this matters: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-we-need-to-take-pet-loss-seriously
-
Deaf interpretation: this could be a helpful outreach for local churches
https://youtu.be/pJkgNIxtxPI
-
A significant study about autism: don't assume, but ask people with disabilities what they need.
https://news.ucsc.edu/2018/06/akhtar-autism.html
-
MHM: “Welcoming All” by Bob Griggs - For people living with mental or physical illness, as well as those who are grieving or struggling with problems in their lives, Christmas can be a difficult.
https://mhn-ucc.blogspot.com/2018/12/welcoming-all-by-bob-griggs.html
-
UMC sponsors Deaf Santa
https://www.mlive.com/news/2018/12/children-visit-sign-with-deaf-santa-claus-in-flint.html

Ableism, the Gospel of John, and who tells our story?
https://beckiewrites.com/2018/12/20/who-tells-our-story-ableism-vision-loss-johns-message-of-hope-his-encouragement-6/
-
Julian Way: Advent, Health, and  Insurance
https://www.facebook.com/TheJulWay/posts/2173945659533949
-
Deaf community mission to Red Bird, closes January 15
https://www.umcd.org/newssej/190811.html
-
South Central UMCD Conference, July 2019
https://www.umcd.org/newsscj/index.html

Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.
We wish everyone at happy Christmas, a good New Year, and we'll be back just before Epiphany.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.


Friday, December 14, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 14 December 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
DHM Advent newsletter
https://www.umdeaf.org/news/
-
MHM: Blue Christmas
https://www.facebook.com/pg/Mental-Health-Ministries-186943104662050/posts/?ref=notif
-
Holiday guide to autism
https://carriecariello.com/2018/11/19/holiday-guide-to-autism/
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Race, poverty, and disability
http://realeconomicimpact.tumblr.com/post/180621399020/looking-at-race-poverty-and-disability
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MHM: All is calm
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2116747278348280&id=186943104662050
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MHM: Waiting
https://mhn-ucc.blogspot.com/2018/12/waiting-by-karl-shallowhorn.html
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Was Joseph on the Autism spectrum?
https://www.disabilityandfaith.org/was-joseph-on-the-autism-spectrum-author-post/
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Funding renovation at Idaho church
https://www.postregister.com/news/local/renovation-project-underway-at-trinity-united-methodist-church/article_9d0d82ad-9ff2-558f-b029-da84b11fc80e.html
-
Captioning has value beyond Deaf accommodation
https://www.businessinsider.com/watch-movies-and-tv-shows-with-subtitles-on-2018-11
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The Hope of Waiting
http://www.adnetonline.org/Blog/Pages/2018/The-Hope-of-Waiting.aspx
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A cat learns signing
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2480411558652359&id=260161100677427&comment_id=2485302251496623&notif_id=1544715224822785&notif_t=feed_comment&ref=notif
-
Better sermons about disability
https://www.keyministry.org/church4everychild/2018/12/6/pastors-here-are-three-ways-to-preach-better-sermons-about-disability
-
PSA: recruiting for ASL study for children under 5
http://sites.bu.edu/aslvocab/participate-in-a-research-study/

Deaf community mission to Red Bird, closes January 15
https://www.umcd.org/newssej/190811.html

Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, December 7, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 7 December 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Sesame Street inclusion
https://www.kveller.com/sesame-street-nails-inclusion-synagogues-should-follow-suit/
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"Speechless"
https://www.upworthy.com/speechless-isn-t-just-a-good-show-it-s-the-first-to-speak-directly-to-people-like-me-living-with-cerebral-palsy
-
Beating the holiday blues
https://www.hometownsource.com/stillwater_gazette/free/faith-family-column-beating-the-holiday-blues/article_a4a4d74a-dc6f-11e7-8e74-93d732a612b8.html
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Self-care: respect
https://oboedire.wordpress.com/2018/11/23/shepherds-care-time-to-be-respectful/
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When Christmas is difficult
https://www.bphope.com/blog/when-christmas-is-difficult/
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A blind couple opens a pastor's eyes
https://www.presbyterianmission.org/story/pt-1018-blind/
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How L'Arche creates a community
https://www.today.com/video/how-l-arche-creates-a-community-for-people-with-and-without-disabilities-to-thrive-1382872131851
-
Etiquette gone wrong: wheelchair space
https://youtu.be/wGMoPUlnfgw

Deaf community mission to Red Bird, closes January 15
https://www.umcd.org/newssej/190811.html

Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, November 30, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 30 November 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Church shouldn't be one of the challenges for disabled children
https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/kids-with-disabilities-face-many-challenges-church-shouldnt-be-one-of-them/2018/11/15/2b324364-e83c-11e8-b8dc-66cca409c180_story.html
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Hearing Loop, First UMC Red Wing MN
https://www.minnesotaumc.org/itworkeddetail/12395241
-
Taking a seat for inclusion
http://autismpastor.com/?p=2729
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NYT Disability series: A clearer message on cochlear implants
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/21/opinion/deaf-cochlear-implants-sign-language.html
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NYT opinion: Revelations in a wheelchair
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/opinion/sunday/photography-in-a-wheelchair.html
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MHM:  preparing for the journey
https://mhn-ucc.blogspot.com/2018/11/preparing-for-journey-by-rachael-keefe.html
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National Geographic highlights Down syndrome
https://aleteia.org/2018/11/23/national-geographics-new-photo-campaign-highlights-people-with-down-syndrome
-
Supporting persons with disabilities through the holidays
https://clcnetwork.org/supporting-persons-with-disabilities-through-the-holidays-part-2
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Stairs become lift
https://www.sesameaccess.com/
https://www.facebook.com/AllWheelChairStuff/videos/708987149467029/
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We hear about seasonal depression; some disabilities are also effected
https://livingwithhearingloss.com/2018/11/13/does-your-tinnitus-worsen-in-the-winter/
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Deafblind theatre
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2448783148481867&id=260161100677427&notif_id=1543500063325902
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame

          and



 several

 disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, November 16, 2018

News and Notes from AMD, 16 November 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Resisting ableism in the American church
https://sojo.net/articles/resisting-ableism-american-church
-
Financial abuse and disability
http://realeconomicimpact.tumblr.com/post/179859427070/we-all-deserve-safety-and-financial-security
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MHM: out of the ashes
https://youtu.be/cngubLeFfBU
-
The good Samaritan church
http://disabledchristianity.blogspot.com/2018/11/the-good-samaritan-church.html
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Is self-care in the job description?
https://oboedire.wordpress.com/2018/11/09/shepherds-care-time-with-god/
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Sign language reveals hidden aspects
https://www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2018/november/sign-language-reveals-the-hidden-logical-structure--and-limitati.html
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Review: American Protestant responses to mental illness
https://www.h-net.org/reviews/showpdf.php?id=50948&
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UMCD/DHM Northeast Jurisdiction Fall Retreat
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
How my daughter's speech delay has changed my preaching
https://www.christiancentury.org/article/first-person/how-my-daughter-s-speech-delay-has-changed-my-preaching
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MHM Spotlight: Holidays
http://mentalhealthministries.net/spotlights/html_spotlights/2018/holiday2018.html
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Mass gun violence and trauma
https://theconversation.com/what-mass-shootings-do-to-those-not-shot-social-consequences-of-mass-gun-violence-106677
-
Accessible design
https://webdesign.tutsplus.com/articles/designing-accessible-content-typography-font-styling-and-structure--cms-31934
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Not Deaf but not hearing
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/hard-of-hearing-not-deaf_us_5be20252e4b0769d24c61c87
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Autistic pastor: when you look tired
https://themighty.com/2015/10/lamar-hardwick-autistic-adult-responds-to-you-look-tired/
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Giving Tuesday, November 27
DMC: https://www.umcmission.org/Give-to-Mission/Search-for-Projects/Projects/3021054
DHM: https://www.umcmission.org/Give-to-Mission/Search-for-Projects/Projects/982562

Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame


          and



 several

 disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church. There will probably not be an issue for November 23.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, November 9, 2018

News and notes from UMAMD, 9 November 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
What would it mean to follow "we are all one?"
https://historynewsnetwork.org/article/170175
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A local UMC provides safe space
http://www.advocatesc.org/2018/10/private-academy-at-stallsville-umc-provides-safe-learning-space-for-kids-with-autism-adhd/
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Mission in a UMC that assists Deaf and others
https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/local/ozarks/2018/10/31/springfield-deaf-woman-finds-home-safe-sleep/1742863002/
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ADA and medical facilities
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/for-the-disabled-a-doctors-visit-can-be-literally-an-obstacle-course--and-the-laws-cant-help/2018/10/26/1917e04c-d628-11e8-aeb7-ddcad4a0a54e_story.html
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EcumenAbility: Christian week of unity
https://www.facebook.com/ecumenability/posts/444179696110391
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Summer Institute of Theology requests proposals
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdNv_NfrVbD405xOGFiwod8qh6KplbVCQ4LTw8L-Sua-gC9mg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR2mm9Jqaab6Jgq33QzBn_yCGMmyIZXbpMZ4nzi1T2ALD0h_nXM-Ez5ypwU
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UM woman reaches out to Deaf community
https://www.brownwoodnews.com/local-woman-reaching-out-to-deaf-community/
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Slow down, you talk too fast
https://livingwithhearingloss.com/2018/10/30/slow-down-you-talk-too-fast
-
Accommodating aging web users
http://globalaccessibilitynews.com/2018/10/12/the-elderly-and-web-accessibility-accommodating-aging-web-users/
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UMNS: Zimbabwe
https://www.umnews.org/en/news/united-methodist-focuses-on-others-with-disabilities
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MHM video: PTSD Healing and Hope
https://youtu.be/yP08jh6LK48
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MHM Veteran's Day Bulletin Insert
http://mentalhealthministries.net/resources/bulletin_inserts/veterans_day/veteransday.pdf
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Nov. 15 free webinar: Inclusive Emergency Preparedness for people with disabilities
http://www.adainfo.org/training/Inclusive-Emergency-Preparedness
-
Giving Tuesday, November 27
DMC: https://www.umcmission.org/Give-to-Mission/Search-for-Projects/Projects/3021054
DHM: https://www.umcmission.org/Give-to-Mission/Search-for-Projects/Projects/982562

Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, November 2, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 2 November 2018

Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Is being strong being open, or being a fortress?
https://www.redletterchristians.org/man-enough-to-ask-for-help/
-
Kintsugi Pastor: Tree of Life
https://crippastor.wordpress.com/
-
TEDx: captioning
https://youtu.be/ngKp9MqUGj8
-
Mosaic: Rejoicing Spirits newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/mosaicinfo/you-make-a-great-difference-thank-you-1050917
-
MHM at NAMI walk in San Diego (photos)
https://www.facebook.com/186943104662050/photos/a.212469705442723/389044841118541/?type=3&theater&comment_id=2056516851037990&force_theater=1&notif_t=photo_comment&notif_id=1540915068006595
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The Impact of Professional Spiritual Care (Adobe book)
https://indd.adobe.com/view/2d555e8f-5d1a-47bf-ad94-760092053d0b
-
Giving Tuesday is November 27:

Disability Ministries Advance

Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Advance

-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.

UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
        disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, October 26, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 26 October 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
AAPD statement on Public Charge Rule changes. The Arc and DREDF have issued a similar statement.
https://www.aapd.com/press-releases/the-american-association-of-people-with-disabilities-opposes-the-public-charge-rule/
-
Teaching about inclusion
https://www.thestar.com/life/health_wellness/2018/10/14/teaching-kids-to-be-allies-for-disability-inclusion.html
-
Mental illness is a church issue
https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7938/mental-illness-is-a-church-issue
-
People with disabilities have often been overlooked in emergency and disaster planning--and it's likely to get worse if we don't speak up: as disasters strike, advocates worry FEMA policy changes put disability community at risk
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/as-disasters-strike-advocates-worry-fema-policy-changes-put-disability-community-at-risk
-
Review of the Routledge History of Disability. While probably priced out of reach for most, libraries may have it, and the review itself is informative.
https://www.h-net.org/reviews/showrev.php?id=51553
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Being an advocate in your church
https://includedbygrace.wordpress.com/2015/05/27/being-an-advocate-in-your-church/
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"there are no small churches, but only 'small' pastors who view them as such"--a seminary professor reflects on Henri Nouwen with a view that also applies to disabilities
https://oboedire.wordpress.com/2018/10/19/shepherds-care-small-churches/
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Laments: what do we lose, and how does it relate to disability?
https://www.redletterchristians.org/where-have-all-the-sad-songs-gone/
-
UM Church of the Resurrection - Sonflower Bakery
http://www.abilityministry.com/2018/10/24/the-sonflower-bakery-story/
-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, October 19, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 19 October 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Broken and hopeful
https://mhn-ucc.blogspot.com/2018/10/broken-and-hopeful-by-bob-griggs.html
-
What inclusion really looks like
https://www.rootedinrights.org/what-does-inclusion-actually-look-like/
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Helping children and youth who have trauma
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2036143279742014&id=186943104662050
-
Grant for accessibility at Colquitt UMC
https://www.sgaumc.org/advnewsdetail/grant-helps-colquitt-umc-become-handicap-accessible-12101797
-
Disability awareness sermon from CRC
https://network.crcna.org/disability-concerns/yes-i-can-sermon-october-21-2018-based-mark-1035-45
-
Deaf church plants seeds for Deaf ministries
https://umdisability.blogspot.com/2018/10/deaf-church-plants-seeds-for-deaf.html
-
Review of Disability Studies issue on dismantling ableism
https://www.rds.hawaii.edu/
-
Pastoral care for those who have been harmed
https://www.pnwumc.org/news/tidal-waves/
-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Summer Institute on Theology & Disability: May 20-23, 2019
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Deaf Church Plants Seeds for Deaf Ministries


By Rev. Leo Yates, Jr. 

Magothy United Methodist Church of the Deaf in Pasadena, Maryland, a church in the Baltimore-Washington Conference, partnered with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries committee of the UMC’s General Board of Global Ministries to host a “Deaf Ministry: Boot Camp” workshop. The event was held on Saturday, October 13, 2018. The idea was put into action with assistance from Global Ministries through a grant the church received to support the workshop. 

Participants were United Methodists, as well as from other denominations, some of whom came from the Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference and the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual conference. Some were newcomers to Deaf ministry, while others were wanting to learn more and leave with new ideas.  

The co-facilitator, Rev. Leo Yates, Jr., shared, “It’s important that churches be more accessible and empowering for Deaf, hard of hearing, and Deafblind persons and their families in the Church, no matter the denomination.” Referencing Luke 14:15-24, he continued, “we are all a part of the body of Christ and being accessible is what Christ calls us to do” as he spoke about welcoming persons with disabilities. By practicing welcoming, God’s house can be full. He went on, using Luke 1:62 to emphasize the inclusiveness of Zechariah’s friends who signed and gestured to him about naming his infant, whom we know as John (the Baptist). Darlene Koontz, a Deaf church leader expressed, “Its important that Deaf people have access to church, which means we need qualified interpreters, but being friendly and welcoming is just as important.” Having Deaf and hard of hearing people help lead the workshop showed their gifts for ministry, said Yates.

The “boot camp” opened with a devotional that highlighted Jesus’ words, “Ephphatha,” from Mark’s gospel, emphasizing “being open” to Deaf and hard of hearing persons and their language and culture (Mark 7:31-37). The typical interpretation shows the Deaf-mute was healed; however, the devotion showed that the community was healed because they were now open to this Deaf man. The workshop went on to orient participants to Deaf culture. This included an introduction to sign language, led by the church’s Deaf lay leader, Darlene Koontz. Then the empowerment of Deaf leadership was explained by the church’s Deaf Finance Committee chairperson, Alma Andrews. Following this, the inclusion of Deaf music worship was shared by one of the founders of the Deaf church, Flo Johnson. Considerations for an interpreting ministry, the implementation of a hard of hearing ministry, and a disability ministry were also covered in the workshop. In addition, overviews highlighting accessibility, mission opportunities, raising Deaf awareness and inclusion, various Deaf ministry models, how to promote the ministry, and best practices were presented by the workshop co-facilitators, Rev. Leo Yates, Jr. and Jeanne Maddox. The church’s pastor, Rev. Emily Hart, shared resources about Deaf Ministries in the Baltimore-Washington Conference.

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants prayed with and encouraged each other in their endeavors to have their own ministry. Some already have such a ministry, most hope to expand their reach, based on new ideas such as adopting a Deaf group home or a group home with persons with disabilities during the holidays. Other ideas include hosting sign language classes for new parents and their infants (teaching baby signs while connecting new families to a faith community).

Table with banner "ASL day" and papers showing basic ASL
A model table for ASL Days at Deaf awareness events

Person at a table from Global Ministries, there are many brochuress
One of the participants checks out the Global Ministries table

two people look at a table,  on their right is a banner, "Welcome"
Two participants from Pennsylvania check out an exhibit

A woman signs behind a lectern, a screen behind her projects the words
Deaf worship leader, Flo Johnson, signs "Amazing Grace"

a woman near a lectern signing, behind her is a projected screen
Deaf church leader, Darlene Koontz explaining about Deaf culture.

A closer view of the same setting, another woman signing about leadership
The church’s finance chairperson sharing about empowering Deaf persons for leadership.

People seated around tables, working with each other
Workshop participants engaged in an activity

Leo leads a session, he is signing in front of a projected screen
Presenter, Rev. Leo Yates, Jr., explained about past experiences of oppression Deaf persons had at church



Friday, October 12, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 12 October 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
MHM bulletin insert for Mental Illness Awareness
http://www.mentalhealthministries.net/resources/bulletin_inserts/mental_illness_awareness_week/mental_illness_awareness_week.pdf
-
Deaf, Deafblind, and Hearing UM's celebrate Deaf Awareness in Florida
http://umdisability.blogspot.com/2018/10/deaf-deafblind-and-hearing-united.html
-
Ten Basic ASL signs
https://www.facebook.com/DeafTvStory/videos/452172448550080/
-
The heart of the suicide epidemic
http://mindspirit.com/heart-suicide-epidemic/
-
We thought we'd done enough to welcome...
https://www.faithandleadership.com/hannah-c-brown-we-thought-wed-done-enough-welcome-people-disabilities-our-church-we-were-wrong
-
New technology, regulations for hearing aids
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hearing-aids-you-aint-heard-nothing-yet/
and
https://www.hearingtracker.com/bose-hearing-aid
-
On pain, pain management, and public policy--all topics for pastoral care
http://notdeadyet.org/2018/10/anita-cameron-the-criminalization-of-pain.html
-
The woman behind Textweek
https://www.faithandleadership.com/woman-behind-textweekcom
-
Crip for a day: unintended consequences of disability simulations
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57d1d882e58c62c988fb0254/t/5ae8b3ce562fa76910c7ee3e/1525199822672/cripforaday2017.pdf

-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, October 5, 2018

News and notes from AMD, 5 October 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
"Harmless" comments that hurt
https://themighty.com/2018/02/harmful-comments-said-to-people-with-anxiety/
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Welcome comes in all  shapes and sizes
https://clergystuff.com/an-exceptional-people/interview-pastor-one-arm
-
Inclusion at functions outside of a church building can be problematic, especially small groups meeting in homes. CRC's Breaking Barriers discusses this in their Fall 2018 issue. Available in PDF and audio.
https://network.crcna.org/disability-concerns/breaking-barriers-fall-2018
-
ASL voter assistance hotline from NAD
https://www.nad.org/2018/09/28/asl-voter-assistance-hotline-available/
-
Shepherd's self-care
https://oboedire.wordpress.com/2018/09/28/shepherds-care-self-care/
-
"inspiration porn": my story isn't for your catharsis
https://theestablishment.co/my-disability-story-isnt-for-your-catharsis/
-
Deaf in Tanzania
https://religionnews.com/2018/09/27/for-deaf-tanzanians-places-to-worship-are-rare/
-
Get Ready for Mental Illness Awareness Week – October 7-13
http://www.mentalhealthministries.net/resources/october_mental_illness_awareness_week.html
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Learning to love limits
http://autismpastor.com/?p=2698
-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Deaf, Deafblind, and Hearing United Methodists Celebrate Deaf Awareness Week


by Rev. Leo Yates, Jr. 

Deaf, hard of hearing, Deafblind, and hearing United Methodists observed and celebrated Deaf Awareness Week during the last week of September. Members from various United Methodist churches in the Florida Annual Conference celebrated by gathering and touring the Holy Land Experience, an amusement park in Orlando on September 29. They gathered for a time of education, fellowship, and fun. The group coordinator, Mary Harris, an interpreter from Conway United Methodist Church, organized the event as a part of their church’s observation of Deaf Awareness Week. At Conway, Deaf ministries are considered an extension of the Deaf community; also present were Deaf and hearing congregants from St. Andrew UMC of Titusville, Pine Castle UMC of Orlando, and Conway UMC of Orlando. Several people served as support service providers (SSPs) and guides for the Deafblind participants. 

The celebration continued on Sunday, September 30th, when visitors from various churches and ministries worshipped together at Conway UMC to celebrate Deaf Awareness Sunday. This last Sunday of September is recognized as International Day of the Deaf. Billy Deters, the president of United Methodist Congress of the Deaf, a recognized caucus of the denomination, was on hand along with his family to participate and worship. Deaf, Deafblind, hard of hearing, and hearing members from various Deaf ministries and from the community made up the signing choir. A feature of raising Deaf awareness was when a Conway member taught and led the congregation the song, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” Conway’s pastor, the Rev. Dianne Davis, was on hand to encourage and assist with worship, which included her leading the pastoral prayer. Mary Ann Deters, a Deaf member of St. Andrew UMC of Titusville, taught the children’s message, based on 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, highlighting equality of the members of the body of Christ. The church had Deaf and hearing members to serve as ushers and greeters, which included bulletin inserts of the ASL manual alphabet. Dennis Cody, a Deafblind member of Conway, prayed over the offering. The Rev. Leo Yates, Jr., a consultant of Global Ministries’ Committee on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries, was the guest preacher. At the conclusion of the sermon, Mary Harris was recognized for her planning efforts and her dedication to Deaf ministry. Whether you’re Deaf, hard of hearing, Deafblind, or hearing, we all share in the same enjoyment of a potluck lunch, a common feature of United Methodism. This was certainly true on this special Sunday as most gathered after worship in the dining hall for lunch. 

Observing and celebrating the gifts of all people, including Deaf, hard of hearing, Deafblind, and hearing people alike is a faithful expression of what the Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Romans. “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7). The worship service led by Deaf, hard of hearing, and Deafblind persons exemplified their leadership ability. Whether it’s for social justice reasons or for diversity reasons, it’s the right thing to do that we include ALL people and their gifts for servant ministry.

Resources:



Other resources can be found here 

   
An interpreter signing for the audience
An interpreter signing for the audience

People seated at the edge of acting area, watching
Some of the audience viewing the Biblical drama.

A person portraying Jesus, around him are many others.
A scene from the Biblical drama

Several people seated around a table, eating
A few gathered for lunch at the Holy Land Experience

A person dressed as Roman soldier, a Deafblind man, and a woman hug each other
Roman soldier hugging a Deafblind audience member

A Global Ministries exhibit table

the group at the event, there are three rows of people, about 25 in all
A group picture at the Holy Land Experience

people in a chancel, in a line, signing together, with a leader in front and screens behind
Deaf, hard of hearing, Deafblind, and hearing persons signing a hymn

        

Friday, September 28, 2018

News and notes from UMAMD, 28 September 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Helping people with mental health conditions prepare for disasters
http://www.tucollaborative.org/sdm_downloads/helping-people-with-mental-health-conditions-prepare-for-disasters/
-
Helen Keller to be removed from Texas history texts
https://rewire.news/article/2018/09/20/now-is-an-especially-terrible-time-for-texas-to-stop-teaching-kids-about-helen-keller/
-
Members of Glendale UMC, Nashville speak about healthcare
https://www.facebook.com/glendaleumc/photos/a.10153287268633980/10156770936718980/?type=3&theater
and
https://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/health/2018/09/12/tennessee-aca-obamacare-health-insurance-preexisting-condition/1265333002/
-
The Mental Health Ministries Fall e-Spotlight is now available
http://www.mentalhealthministries.net/spotlights/index.html
-
Everything you wanted to know about anxiety but were afraid to ask
https://www.pnwumc.org/news/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-anxiety-but-were-afraid-to-ask/
-
Enriched by differences
https://network.crcna.org/disability-concerns/enriched-differences-0
-
Autism and the New Testament (limited time availability)
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23312521.2017.1373613?scroll=top&needAccess=true
-
Art for the visually impaired
https://www.mutualart.com/Article/How-the-Art-World-is-Making-Way-for-the-/40BD2955157C32C1
-
Resiliency
https://www.bphope.com/fast-talk-resilience-rules/
-
GBCS: clergy and suicide prevention
https://www.umcjustice.org/news-and-stories/clergy-have-a-role-in-suicide-prevention-735
-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, September 21, 2018

News and notes from UMAMD, 21 September 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
OPIOID EPIDEMIC PRACTICAL TOOLKIT: Helping Faith-based and Community Leaders Bring Hope and Healing to Our Communities
https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/hhs-partnership-ctr-opioid-practical-toolkit-unremediated.pdf
-
Everything I fear...
https://crippastor.wordpress.com/2018/09/14/everything-i-fear-and-dread-comes-true-or-at-least-it-feels-that-way/
-
Economics of disability
https://www.marketplace.org/topics/economics-disability
-
Will you get to know me?
https://sns360.org/blog/will-you-get-to-know-me/
-
Adapting a Labyrinth
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/8704889-181/earle-baum-center-in-santa
-
Wounded Healers
https://oboedire.wordpress.com/2018/09/03/in-sight-wounded-healers/
-
Deaf TV Zimbabwe
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2350535954973254&id=260161100677427&notif_id=1537367702547269
-
The Autism Pastors: Six Reasons why Pastors silently struggle
http://autismpastor.com/?p=2660
-
Pro-Tactile ASL
https://newportnewstimes.com/article/in-touch-literally
-
What it's like to be autistic in church
https://factsandtrends.net/2018/09/04/cringing-at-church-what-its-like-as-an-autistic-person-in-your-congregation/
-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10 (updated information)
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html

Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.

Friday, September 14, 2018

News and notes from UMAMD, 14 September 2018


Here are the highlights of postings this week from the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, Disability Ministries Committee, Mental Health Ministries, Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Ministries Committee, and UM Congress of the Deaf:
-
Raising Deaf Awareness means Opening Church Hearts
http://umdisability.blogspot.com/2018/09/raising-deaf-awareness-means-opening.html
-
Review of Faithful and Fractured
https://www.christiancentury.org/review/books/putting-clergy-health-perspective
-
UMCs in Twin Cities accommodate disabilities
http://www.startribune.com/some-twin-cities-churches-learning-striving-to-accommodate-children-with-disabilities/492741281/
-
Clergy not prepared to meet congregations' mental health needs
https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/religion/2018/08/27/mental-health-church-clergy-congregation/884914002/
-
Accessible Parking Coalition
https://accessibleparkingcoalition.org/
-
South Carolina: Mental Health ministry
http://www.advocatesc.org/2018/08/being-jesus-to-the-mentally-ill/
-
Northeastern Jurisdiction Deaf Ministry Conference, November 9-10
https://www.umcd.org/newsnej/1811.html
-
Click here for a list of events of interest to people in disability ministry.
UMAMD logo with the UM Cross and Flame and several
          disability symbols
This newsletter is generally issued weekly by the
United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities,
a caucus of the United Methodist Church.

Click here to join this e-mail list.
This newsletter is also published on the UM Disability Blog
Visit us on the web or Facebook.