Including everyone in... Worship

If we see worship as encountering God, then it is paramount that whatever our expression of worship may be, we are creating an environment that everyone is able to encounter God.

Can everyone be included in worship, liturgy, the sacraments and prayers? Can you be creative in using audio and visual stimuli, flags and banners, percussion instruments... during worship?

Singing / Music

• Is there room and encouragement for creative expressions of worship, such as dancing, waving flags, playing percussion instruments?
• Are your songs easy to understand? - can you alternate between traditional and simple songs?
• Are your songsheets or overheads clear to read?
• Do people with learning disabilities get to sing the same songs in small-group meetings so that they become familiar with them?

Preaching

• Do not confuse simple communication with a simple message – consider your choice of words, metaphors etc.  Have one clear message and communicate it clearly. 
• Can you avoid metaphors and figures of speech? Consider what your words, taken literally, would mean.
• Are there ways you can keep your preach interesting for those whose attention spans are shorter? Through creatively including drama, testimonies, even just moving around?

Praying

• Do you split into small groups to pray together? If so, are there enough people trained in ministry for people with learning disabilities to be able to include them?
• If using set prayers, can you explain any difficult language before or after prayers?
• Consider having a (flexible) time limit for individuals when having times of open prayer. People with learning disabilities often appreciate clear boundaries for all.
• Can you use visual images to help focus attention, i.e. a picture of the nation you are praying for?
  

Communion

• Does everyone understand what Communion means? (Causeway Prospects has resources).
• Is somebody available to help explain the process and the language, if needed? Be aware of language, i.e. the Body & Blood – it cannot be changed, but can be explained.

Small Groups

• Be aware of the dangers of either segregating people into particular groups whilst also recognising that there is value in associating with people in similar circumstances.
• Causeway Prospects can equip and train your church to run a home group for people with learning disabilities.
• How can you include people with learning disabilities in your regular small groups?
• Can your small groups meet with the Causeway group in a social context, or for fellowship, every so often?