For most of my life, the word “ministry” was reserved for elite, extra-spiritual pastors. People were “called to the ministry” and “doing ministry” in ways that always seemed to put them in inside a church building while standing at a podium.
As I became older, ultimately growing closer to God in vision loss, I realized that my mentality and beliefs about ministry were far too narrow. I began to realize that every follower of Christ is essentially “called to the ministry” because ministry is simply what we do for God’s glory based on where He has placed us, how He has gifted us, and what He has called us to do. It is His infinite wisdom that He shows each of us the necessary steps we can take in our own communities to ensure the proclamation of the gospel.
The Bible says:
So, if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. – Philippians 2:1-4
Ministry is about giving of ourselves and our time, talents, and resources to bless and help others. The cry of the minister is “someone’s got to do it, might as well be me.” When we serve in ministry, we will find our greatest joy and most fulfillment in life. I consider my work with Blind Motherhood to be an invaluable part of my personal ministry.
Advocacy & Outreach: Advocacy and outreach seeks to ensure that all people in society are able to have their voices heard on issues that are important to them. It helps protect and promote individual rights and showcases the need for all views to be considered when decisions are being made that collectively impact humanity. The Staten Island Beeping Egg Hunt and my Visually Impaired Education Program (V.I.E.P.) are two programs I began in my community to foster awareness about the need for inclusivity and education relating to blindness. Advocacy and outreach are an integral part of my ministry. Let me help you make it a part of yours!
Devotionals: If you’re Christian, then you already know you have a lot of freedom when it comes to determining when and how long to read your Bible and pray. Devotionals help each of us grow closer to God through prayerful study and reflection. Christ will always bring us closer to God. Pray with me as I share my joys and struggles through Blind Motherhood’s devotionals.
Church Engagement: Each of us deserves an equal opportunity to know Jesus Christ. For the disabled community, this requires church engagement through inclusive ministry. An inclusive ministry is one which enables, empowers, and engages all persons within the worshipping community, regardless of ability. This stems from a belief that God has created us as equally-valued people in His image. Is your congregation struggling to include the disabled in your house of worship? Are you curious how a blind momma teaches Sunday School lessons? Want to know how I participate in Bible study? Click here as I share my personal experiences with both effective and ineffective church engagement.
Faith & Inspiration: I walk by “faith” and not by “sight.” Walking by faith requires a strong determination to follow God’s plan regardless what life throws your way – including unexpected vision loss. I feel God’s grace when my husband holds me. I can hear His love in my children’s laughter. Life as a blind mom is hard, but God is good… ALL THE TIME. I remain an inspired and faithful woman. Read why here.
Tea for the Soul: Tea for the Soul is a pastoral care tool widely utilized by chaplaincy departments in healthcare facilities. Chaplains will often work with staff to coordinate time to relax, share baked goods, and enjoy a cup of tea with one another. These gatherings remind community members that they are valued as individuals and as a group, improving team rapport and lowering team stress. Will you have a cup of tea with me as we talk about vision loss, faith, and family? Check Blind Motherhood’s Facebook Page for weekly announcements.
The Word: The word of Christ is the gospel message. God’s Word prepares and teaches us for everything the Bible commands us to do. The Holy Spirit uses the Word of God to transform us into Christ-likeness. Becoming blind changed my interpretation of God’s word. I see things from a different lens and my seminary studies have helped me to develop a new, perhaps even deeper, meaning of scripture. Would you explore His Word with me? Let’s help each other grow closer to God.