In April 2025 Mennonite Health Services Association and Anabaptist Disabilities Network received a grant from the Lilly Endowment’s Nurturing Children Through Worship and Prayer Initiative to launch the “All In: Immersive Worship for Everybody” Project.
As a result ADN is on a journey with 19 congregations to create accessible, intergenerational worship. Together we are exploring worship practices that engage people of all ages and abilities, such as art projects, dramatic reenactments of scripture, songs, and liturgy that can be learned with repetition. In addition, we are exploring other embodied, multi-sensory practices, including traditional rituals like communion and anointing.
Our Goals:
- Through our work together, ADN will develop training resources to continue nurturing and expanding the network of “All In” congregations for years to come.
- More children, especially children with disabilities, will participate and take part in leading intergenerational congregation worship.
- Children of all abilities will deepen their connection with God and their faith community.
- Parents and caregivers will feel worship is a place where all their children belong.
- Pastors and congregations will be equipped, learning how to plan and lead intergenerational and multi-sensory worship services in a sensory-friendly and trauma informed environment.
Interested in making worship inclusive for all ages and abilities?
Check out these great resources:
Talk with our team: Get personalized guidance and practical next steps for creating more inclusive worship in your setting.