For many families who have a relative with special needs, attending a traditional church service can be an overwhelming experience. Structured settings, long periods of sitting still and unexpected noises can create significant challenges. Recognizing these struggles, Shama Felix, special education teacher, and Lenora Pollard, parent of two neurodivergent children, took action to create a more inclusive space for worshipers of all ages and abilities.
The idea for an inclusive church service first emerged when Felix met a fellow teacher who had stopped attending church due to her autistic children’s difficulties in structured services. Later, a client asked if Felix’s church had anything for their child.
“I really wish I could have told her, ‘Yes, we have something that fits your son’s needs,’” said Felix. Conversations with fellow church members and professionals led to the development of an inclusive fellowship designed to accommodate special needs individuals in a welcoming and flexible environment.
With support from a Young Adult Spark Tank grant and additional church funding, the inclusive ministry launched as a self-paced, hands-on experience. Unlike a conventional service where attendees sit through structured lessons, this program offers multiple interactive stations that cater to different learning styles. Activities reinforce the themes of the service through sensory play, storytelling and physical engagement. Participants can move between stations at their own pace before coming together for a brief group session.
Examples of interactive lessons include acting out biblical stories, sorting healthy and unhealthy foods in lessons on Daniel, and building and knocking down block walls to learn about the walls of Jericho. These engaging activities help reinforce biblical teachings in a way that resonates with participants.
Pollard, who previously struggled to manage her children’s needs during traditional services, was eager to participate. “It was always a gamble. How are they going to behave today? How long will I have to sit outside? And the service is only an hour. So, I miss a lot of it. I can’t go to the adults’ class. I can’t go to the kids’ class,” Pollard stated.
Pollard’s sons have enjoyed the inclusive service. With hands-on learning, her sons are internalizing lessons and learning the good news of Jesus. Her oldest has become a little missionary, asking neighbors why they don’t go to church on Sabbath.
Since its launch, the program has served individuals ranging from ages 5–63 and has been spearheaded by a handful of volunteers who are passionate about making the gospel accessible to everyone. The ministry meets on the second Sabbath of each month, with an upcoming break from May through July to plan future services.
“It’s easy to get into the rut of leaving an individual with a disability at home because it’s easier. But this is a way to help development and learning while creating an opportunity for community,” stated Felix.
Through their dedication, Felix and her team are fostering a space where all individuals, regardless of ability, can connect with their faith in a meaningful way.
A group of volunteers starts Tacoma Central Church's new inclusive ministry.
Participants learn God created humans on the sixth day of creation.
