The Bishop: Getting our priorities straight
Bishop Bledsoe
BY BISHOP W. EARL BLEDSOE
North Texas Conference
How disabled are you? Many of us who have sight, hearing, and use of all ourlimbs usually do not think of ourselves as disabled. However, I learned at the disabilities seminar held Oct. 5 at our Ministry Center that we all are disabled in some way. I discovered I cannot give or understand sign language or Braille. Most recently, I discovered I cannot climb stairs or run as fast as I used to, and I have to have surgery on my knee.
In a way we all are disabled in one way or another, depending on how you view the situation. Our Conference was pleased to host Bishop Peggy Johnson of the Philadelphia Area and the United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities. We were joined by Perkins School of Theology and Lovers Lane UMC.
My personal thanks to Rev. Liz Moen, Associate Director of Connectional Ministries on the NTC staff, and Rev. Tom Hudspeth, associate pastor of Lovers Lane UMC, for bringing this important subject to the forefront of the Conference. I learned that what we all want and need from the church is access, the opportunity to participate fully in the service of worship and the ministries of the church. I also learned that we all want and need respect in life, and respect for our gifts and talents to be fully appreciated and utilized by the church.
There is much to be learned and shared in the church. I would encourage all churches to look for opportunities to make sure we meet the needs of persons with disabilities.
If you want to know what other congregations are doing, check with Rev. Liz Moen, 972-526-5000, or e-mail: moen@ntcumc.org. We have some great ministries meeting these needs.
