Shaping Special Hearts: Starting a Special Needs Ministry

There are lots of ways to begin a special needs ministry, but how can you know what will work for your church? What kind of forms do you need? What is the best way to commicate with people about the ministry? Do we have one special room set aside, or integrate kids into existing classrooms? The questions can be overwhelming. Listen in as Vangie Rodenbeck interviews Sally Brown, Special Needs Coordinator at Ada Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan to hear how one church approaches all of these challenges.

Vangie Rodenbeck began her journey in special needs advocacy when her son, Noah, was diagnosed with autism at age four; the same year she also began full-time ministry to children. Through efforts to create a place where her son could learn about God, special needs advocacy and ministry became one and the same. Vangie has a B.S. in Christian Ministry and an M.A. in Contemporary Theology. Her thesis project, “Disability and the Image of God”, continued her desire to meld theology, practical ministry, and disability advocacy. She also serves as Executive Director for PURE Ministries. Vangie lives and ministers in Meridian, Idaho.