In the Dark

Today I spent the morning with the Disability Concerns Task Force of the Presbytery (DCTF). Once again this "Old Dog" learned some new tricks.

"In the Dark" is a small pamphlet produced by the DCTF which will be part of the Presbytery packet at the May 13, 2008 meeting. Now refocus yourself like I did this morning. The pamphlet in a very simple and light way points out what a great deal can be contributed to any congregation and our Presbyterian Church by persons who have disabilities. See the shift--not what the church does for them but what they can do for the church.

This is another of the ways in which we are inter-dependent. We are partnering with each other. It is not a one way street.

Now for the shocking statistic that made me sit up in my chair. One in five persons in our country lives with a disability. That's right 20%. A lot of those persons have hidden disabilities. That is, we do not notice them easily.

Now for a bigger shock: 90% that is nine out of ten people who have disabilities do not attend church. Talk about an opportunity to reach out to the unchurched! Then add to that what talent and energy could be brought into the church if we seriously reached out to all persons with disabilities.

Thanks Disabilty Concerns Task Force for a wonderful morning. It is one of the most alert and energetic groups I have sat with in the Presbytery.

Well! My eyes have been opened. How about yours?