Category Archives: Children

Churches Build Momentum for Neurodiverse Inclusion Through Nurturing Care Initiative

Posted on May 23, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins

Church leaders from across several Nazarene congregations in the Southeast and Midwest gathered for a monthly Nurturing Care project check-in, sharing stories of progress, growing support, and the challenges of creating more welcoming spaces for neurodivergent and sensory-seeking children and … Continue reading →

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One Step at a Time and Sacred Spaces

Posted on May 9, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins

Articles by Claire McClun, one of our grantees working with neurodivergent children.

Posted in Autism, Children, disability, Family, Homes, Intergenerational, KC Nurturing Care, Nurturing Care | Leave a comment

Faith Communities Urged to Move Beyond Programs to Foster True Belonging

Posted on April 22, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins

Faith leaders are being called to rethink how churches welcome individuals with autism and their families, shifting from program-based support to relationship-driven inclusion. In Nurturing Care’s Day of Learning second session, titled “Faithful Partners in Belonging,” Dr. Melody Escobar highlighted … Continue reading →

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Churches Urged to Rethink Inclusion for Autistic Individuals, Families

Posted on April 14, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins

Dr. Melody Escobar, a leading practical theologian, calls on churches across the United States to confront a troubling reality: families of children with disabilities, particularly autism, leaving congregations at alarming rates due to a lack of genuine inclusion. Speaking during … Continue reading →

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An Active Discussion Session

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins
Posted in Autism, Children, Clergy, Continuing Education, disability, KC Nurturing Care, Nurturing Care, Pedagogy | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Dr. Melody Escobar Opens Day of Learning

Posted on April 13, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins
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Children Find Peace, Purpose Through “Gratitude in Action” at Spring Break Day Camp

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Dean G. Blevins

What began as a simple idea—teaching children to pause, reflect, and pray—came to life in a powerful way during this year’s Spring Break Day Camp at Sandia Valley Church of the Nazarene. Built on the guiding principle “Gratitude is our … Continue reading →

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