Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Mat South Bureau Chief
CHURCH leaders have been urged to promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and to take the lead in dismantling stereotypes against them.
The call came from the Matabeleland South-based Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT), which, in collaboration with the Bible Society of Zimbabwe, recently held discussions with pastors from Gwanda District on the importance of including people with disabilities in church activities.
During the meeting, several key issues were highlighted, including the absence of sign language interpretation during sermons, the inaccessibility of church buildings due to steps and prevalent stereotypical behaviours toward PWDs that hinder their full participation.
Speaking during the meeting, Nkomwa Foundation Trust director, Mr Pick Nkomwa said there is still a huge gap in most churches on the inclusion of PWDs. He said church buildings remain a barrier as some are not accessible.
“Most of our churches are inaccessible to people with disabilities due to physical barriers like steps. I urge pastors to consider restructuring their church entrances to be more inclusive, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments, such as those using wheelchairs, can easily access and participate in worship services.
“When we are having big services like conferences, let us avoid saying ‘Bring the disabled’, let us invite them as we are doing to other people because they also worship the same God we are worshipping. As church leaders let’s be careful of our language when dealing with PWDs because at times it may come out as discriminatory,” he said.
Mr Nkomwa said the community should desist from seeing PWDs as mere charity cases as they can also meaningfully participate in decision-making processes.
He urged pastors to make adjustments in their churches that will enhance inclusion of PWDs.
Pastors who spoke during the meeting committed to implementing inclusive practices in their churches, promoting a more accessible and welcoming environment for all.
“I have learnt a lot from this engagement with NFT, realising we have been excluding people with disabilities from participating in church services and activities, such as praise and worship groups due to misconceptions that involving them would be abusive, rather than empowering them to contribute.
“I have gained a new perspective. As pastors, we should treat people with disabilities with the same dignity and respect as everyone else, recognising their unique abilities and contributions. By giving them opportunities to participate in services, whether through preaching or other roles that suit their abilities, we can foster a more inclusive and compassionate community,” said Gwanda Pastors Fraternity Chairperson, Reverend Given Ncube.
Pastor Stallion Ndlovu from Baptist Church Jahunda branch said he now realises the importance of incorporating the input of PWDs in decision-making.
He said instead of assuming their needs there is a need to engage them on what they need. Pastor Ndlovu said the church fraternity has been more biased towards handing over donations to PWDs while overlooking their contribution.
Bible Society of Zimbabwe, Programmes and Church Relations Officer, Mr Gwinyai Ndembera said it is encouraging to see pastors embracing their role in creating inclusive environments, where people with disabilities feel valued and at home.
He said that by implementing changes, church leaders can foster a sense of belonging for all members.
The organisation handed over audio Bible radios to pastors to enable group listening and Bible study sessions that include people with disabilities.
“Churches need to actively reach out to and be inclusive of people with disabilities by being accessible in attitude, buildings and correct Biblical teaching. The Bible has much to say about disability. There are many misconceptions about disability in the world and in the church.
“Fear and a lack of understanding cause people with disabilities to be ignored. Some churches will not allow people with disabilities into the church. God has made each of us with different gifts, strengths and weaknesses. Often, people with disabilities find that other people decide for them how they can and cannot participate in the life of their church community. The Church is one body, let us promote inclusivity,” he said.
@DubeMatutu
