Introduction
"If bars are more accessible than altars, if theaters are more
welcoming than churches, if the producers of commercial television are
more sophisticated about communication access than our liturgists, if
the managers of department stores know better how to appeal to those with
disabilities than our church leadership, if the publishers of popular
magazines are more knowledgeable about alternative formats than those
who produce religious materials, then we have failed to meet Christ's
challenge to us all."
From "The Wisdom of Human Vulnerability"
by Mary Jane Owen
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Did you know that statistically, as many as seventeen percent
of the people in your congregation have some form of permanent physical
or mental disability? From direct experience you undoubtedly do know of
countless others that have experienced temporary disabilities such as
broken bones, bad knees, severe back problems, eye cataracts, etc. - all
injuries requiring the use of crutches, canes, wheelchairs or other enabling
devices while on the mend. To those numbers add the many elderly persons
in our community who are confronted with the physical and mental challenges
of aging and you can begin to understand why church accessibility is a
key factor in responding to God's call for us to welcome ALL into the
community of faith.
The Presbytery of the Cascades' OPENING DOORS program is designed
to encourage and assist congregations in upgrading their facilities and
programs to make their churches more welcoming to people with disabling
conditions. Our emphasis is on improving awareness, disseminating information,
providing technical assistance, and motivating congregations to action.
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Help is available from your Committee on Congregations. It has
members in your area who seek to provide you with assistance in:
 Clarifying the application
of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and State law to your specific
circumstance.
Offering training
workshops and on-site technical support in interpreting the requirements
for removing physical barriers.
Providing helpful
suggestions on ways in which to nurture the gifts of persons with mental
illness.
Providing sources
to help you interpret the requirements of the law as it relates to your
church and the employment of persons with disabilities.
Identifying potential
sources of funding to assist your church in barrier removal.
To receive more information about this important program and its
many useful benefits contact the Presbytery of the Cascades Central Region
Office at (541)465-9173 or (800)926-3223 and they will have a member of
the OPENING DOORS Task Force call you.
Continue
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