Creating Belonging

Cynthia Pounds presenting a #DATC2024 session on creative solutions to create belonging in the Church. Pounds notes that belonging rests around three key emphases: focusing on first impressions (will people feel valued as they enter?), Attitudes (what are we assuming rather than inquiring?), and connecting (are we inviting special needs families into our ministry). Pounds suggest we walk through our church facilities, then observe, ask, and, in particular, listen. Places to observe include how we communicate belonging to people with disability:

Website/Social Media

Parking

Entrance

Wheelchair Accessibility

Restrooms

Classrooms/Check-in/Guest Areas

All Worship Areas

Sometimes we need creative exploring options. So, for an adult (or large child) changing table we might consider a used massage table.

https://www.facebook.com/dgblevins/posts/10169093729905077?ref=embed_post

About Dean G. Blevins

Dr. Dean G. Blevins currently serves as Professor of Practical Theology and Christian Discipleship at Nazarene Theological Seminary as well as Director of Nurturing Care with Children through Worship and Prayer. An ordained elder, Dean has ministered in diverse settings and currently also serves at the USA Regional Education Coordinator for the Church of the Nazarene. A prolific author, Dr. Blevins recently co-wrote the textbook Discovering Discipleship and edits Didache: Faithful Teaching, a journal for Wesleyan Education.
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