Disability and the Christian response

Ten to 15 per cent of the African population has some form of disability. This large number of more than 80 million people are the most marginalized in accessing basic services needed to live a quality life. Only five to 15 per cent of the people with disabilities have access to health, education, and assistive devices worldwide (WHO, 2011). This has significant consequences on the persons affected including high mortality rates, unemployment, sexual abuse, stigmatization, discrimination, and endemic poverty. Most children with moderate to severe disabilities do not reach their 10th birthday. Their caregivers are often left to care for them single-handedly with no support.

The inadequate service provision for people with disabilities is attributed to negative attitudes and beliefs, lack of awareness about the needs of persons with disabilities, limited skills and capacities of service providers, fragmented and uncoordinated efforts, and inadequate interventions by governments.

Unfortunately, the Body of Christ across Africa has not significantly addressed this issue. In many cases, we perpetuate harmful beliefs, viewing disabilities as a result of demonic possession, punishment for sin, or lack of faith. This leads to unrealistic expectations that all individuals with disabilities can be cured if they demonstrate sufficient faith, engage in fasting, make offerings, confess their sins, or live faultless lives. Such attitudes contribute to feelings of grief and rejection among people with disabilities, rather than offering them the acceptance and support they need.

The Bible and disability

Psalm 139:11-13 reminds us that we are all “fearfully and wonderfully made” by God. Genesis 1:27 emphasizes that we are all created in God’s image and therefore worthy of love and dignity regardless of our appearance or abilities. Jesus himself exemplified the response expected of the Church. He demonstrated that we are not only called to welcome individuals but also to minister to their needs in meaningful and practical ways.

We cannot truly call ourselves followers of Christ unless we embody his love (1 Cor. 13) or claim to have faith if it is not accompanied by action (Js. 2:15-17).

Practical ministry to PWDs

Addressing the needs of people with disabilities requires both advocacy and action.

1. Share the gospel and prayer: It does not matter if you think they don’t understand. Share the best way you can and pray for God to minister to them.
2. Raise awareness: Churches and Christian organizations can play a role in changing perceptions about disability. Teaching and preaching about the value of every human life can help dispel myths and break down the barriers of stigma and discrimination.
3. Advocate for rights: Christians can advocate for policies and practices that promote the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. This includes supporting inclusive education, accessible healthcare, and economic opportunities.
4. Create accessible spaces: Churches should lead by example, ensuring that their facilities are accessible to all. This includes ramps and adapted seating, and inclusive communication like sign language interpretation and braille resources.
5. Empower through ministry: People with disabilities should be active participants in church life, not just recipients of ministry. Empowering them to use their gifts enriches the whole Church and reflects the diversity of the Kingdom of God.
6. Support families: Families of people with disabilities often carry heavy burdens. Offering support, encouragement, and practical assistance makes a world
   of difference.

Conclusion

The challenges are great, but so is our hope in Christ. By working together, we can create communities where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive and fulfil their God-given potential. The Church has a unique role to play in leading the way toward a more inclusive and compassionate society. We are serving Christ himself in welcoming and loving those who are often forgotten. As Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matt. 25:40). May we be known for our love, our compassion, and our commitment to justice for all.