Special Needs

In Christ we are one body with many parts. Each of these parts are unique and are a gift of God to the church. Bethlehem aims to be a local expression of "the Body" where those with special needs are welcomed, loved, and served in practical ways. We also aim to be a place where those with special needs can serve and be meaningfully engaged in the various activities and ministries of the church.

Deaf Ministry
Bethlehem offers ASL Interpretation for the Saturday night service, 5:30pm, Downtown. The interpreter sits on the sanctuary platform on the right side (as you face the front) or the east side of the platform. You are welcome to sit in the pews closest to the interpreter for optimum visibility.

Scent-Free Worship
Bethlehem offers scent-free worship in Room 111 for the Sunday, 9am service, Downtown. This room has a separate entrance and bathroom.

Our Disability Ministry

• Children with Disabilities
  We want to value and display the supremacy of God in disability and suffering. We also believe Psalm 127:3 with all our hearts "Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward." This is true no matter how the Lord has made them. We are committed to doing all that we can to help any child participate and to discover his or her gifts and unique purpose in the body of Christ.
  
  Special care is given in our Family Discipleship Department to provide children and youth with disabilities ways to benefit from our various programs. Parents who have children that require special attention or care are encouraged to connect with the Disability Ministry to discuss the specific needs of the child and to explore ways to facilitate participation. If you would like your child to be in the Nursery or Sunday School it is helpful if you call ahead and let us know you will be coming. Call Brenda at 612-746-2675.
  
• Accessibility
  All three of Bethlehem's sites offer handicapped accessibility.
  
• Interested in Being a Disability Volunteer?
  Out of love and concern for the children in our care, all of our volunteers go through an application process which includes a background check. If you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer to children with special needs, please click here.
  
• Resources
  Our Resource Library has some articles that may interest individuals with disabilities or those in ministry to individuals with disabilities.