Adventist Worship Service Emphasizes Inclusion of People With Special Needs

With International Guide Dog Day, which is celebrated in many countries every April 30, a local church in Brazil emphasized the importance of inclusion during a special worship service and day program. The Barreiros Seventh-day Adventist Church initiative in São José, Santa Catarina, organized by regional Adventist Possibility Ministries (APM), provided living examples of inclusion, learning, and praise to people who are blind, deaf, autistic, or physically disabled, regional leaders reported.

The April 26 program included the participation of Roberto Santos and its APM team, bringing together members of the local community, as well as people with disabilities and their families, for a day dedicated to inclusion and welcoming.

On Saturday morning Bible study groups during what is known as Sabbath School offered classes adapted to the needs of the attendees. One of them catered to people who are blind or suffer reduced vision. The class used resources in braille under the coordination of professors Eliane Santos and Camilo Santos.

The other adapted class aimed at deaf people, with interpretation in Libras (the Brazilian sign language system) by teacher Ítalo Moan and interpreter Mônica Dok. Praise moments were led by blind, autistic, and intellectually disabled people, making the moment even more meaningful. The special worship message was titled, “The Guide Dog and a Welcoming and Inclusive Church.” A community lunch with all participants, including guide dog users, followed the morning program.

Specialized Workshops

In the afternoon, experts held several workshops as they sought to meet different needs. They included activities for blind or deaf individuals, those who are autistic, or people with physical disabilities and reduced mobility. Some initiatives also highlighted the importance of mental health and well-being.

Children also participated in inclusive games and were able to interact with guide dogs and practice using wheelchairs. A highlight was a lecture on the role of guide dogs in society. “The event was a milestone of empathy, learning, and celebration of diversity,” organizers said. “It strengthened the church’s commitment to inclusion.”

About Adventist Possibility Ministries

Adventist Possibility Ministries is based on the belief that “all are gifted, needed, and treasured.” It is grounded in the belief that the gospel transforms the way we see ourselves, others, and God.

According to ministry leaders, the work of APM has been defined not as a program but as a movement that helps us to see, through the eyes of a loving God, strengths and possibilities in seven specific groups. These include deaf, blind, or physically immobile individuals; those who have mental health challenges; orphans and vulnerable children; those mourning loss; and the support of caregivers.

The original version of this story was posted on the South American Division Portuguese-language news site.