by Carol M. Christensen

The Gospel writers called him a paralytic. Today he would be called disabled or physically impaired. All we know for sure about his condition is that he couldn’t walk, but he had four friends who cared enough about him to carry him to Jesus. When they couldn’t get close enough because of the crowd, they dug through the roof of the house and lowered him into the room where Jesus was teaching.

The story is familiar, but many who lead and participate in small groups have never stopped to consider how to make it possible for a disabled person to attend our meetings. Here are some suggestions for encouraging their long-term participation.

Transportation: Mobility, the simple ability to get from place to place, is a critical issue for the physically impaired. You may need to assign someone to pick them up or to help them get to the meeting place. Be considerate; realize that these believers cannot move as quickly as you can.

Facilities: A lot of forethought and preparation should be given to overcoming potential obstacles. Avoid stairs, curbs, grass, gravel, and other entrance obstacles. Tight spaces are difficult for wheelchairs or crutches. Low-sitting couches, rocking chairs, and unstable chairs can make the disabled feel uneasy. Choose a meeting place that is close to the parking area and easily accessible to restrooms.

Location: Instead of rotating from one meeting place to another, consider gathering at the disabled person’s home. That way many potential obstacles have already been eliminated.

Materials: When the group is using special study materials, have an extra set on hand. Keep a spare Bible, pen, and paper at the meeting location so participants don’t have to carry these materials. Be sensitive to the fact that a person, depending on the disability, may feel excluded when the group does activities that involve writing, reading aloud, or doing homework.

Acceptance: Facilitate the handicapped person’s acceptance in your group. If you or your group members are uncomfortable with the disability, discuss your discomfort. Ask the disabled person to help you educate the group. Make sure the members are supportive of the disabled person. Be a genuine friend, and don’t be afraid to include the disabled in activities.

Respect: Although the physically impaired have special needs, they do not want special treatment. Their desire is to be one of the group like everyone else. They don’t want to be treated like fine china; they want to be included in fellowship and growth activities.

God has created a need for spiritual growth in the hearts of both the disabled and those who are not disabled. You can help meet this need by including everyone in small-group growth opportunities.