From unheard voice to real-life action

What does it mean to move beyond simply welcoming families and create a church where every child truly belongs?

This two-part program, presented by the First Third of Life Commission during the Annual Diocesan Convention, begins with an honest panel discussion featuring parents, caregivers, and church leaders. Panelists will share the challenges families of children with disabilities may experience when attending church, participating in worship, and enrolling their children in Sunday School. They will also discuss what they wish clergy, church leaders, and Christian educators better understood about their families’ needs.

Following the panel, participants will move from listening to action through an interactive workshop focused on creating more accessible and inclusive Sunday School programs. Together, we will explore practical ways to adapt lessons, activities, communication, and classroom environments for children with different learning, sensory, behavioral, and communication needs. Participants will have opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, discuss challenges within their own congregations, and identify realistic next steps.

This program is designed for Sunday School teachers and leaders, children and youth ministry volunteers, and anyone committed to helping every child and family experience authentic belonging in the Church.

Come prepared to listen, learn, ask questions, and help move our faith communities forward.

Cost per person $25 includes a box lunch. Please note any dietary needs on the registration form to ensure a special meal is set aside for you. Registration deadline: FRI, OCT 30.

Schedule

• Check In: 9 – 11:45 AM
• Convention Worship Service:  9:30 AM (Attendees are invited to join us for the Diocese of Newark’s Convention Worship Service. Attendance at the worship service is optional.)
• Lunch: 12 PM
• Invisible or UnWelcome – A Discussion Panel: 12:30  – 1:30 PM
• From Welcoming to Belonging: 2 – 3 PM

(Sunday School teachers & leaders attending Convention as deputies, please contact Donna Caputo to find out how you can attend the panel discussion.)