[Faith-talk] Blindness and Church

[mary wurtzel]

Dear Linda,
I don't believe we should be rude.  Of course, we should be in 
God's will.  The fact is, though, that the NFB exists to change 
attitudes about blindness,  and this obviously includes in faith 
communities.  Blindness, as always, is one of our 
characteristics.  We also all have different gifts to offer.
I always felt guilty about not jumping into help our women's 
group inthe kitch.  I tried to go in there and help.  Sometimes I 
would be given a job.  I also tried to be in charge of our coffee 
fellowship time.  Of course  I was fine with baking and bringing 
things in to share.  I just wasn't good at seeting the table, 
putting things on the plates to sqve, etc.  This was not because 
of being blind, probably, it's just not my strength.  I am just 
saying that we all have different strengths and weaknesses.  If 
we are told we cannot participate because of being blind, then we 
need to address it because it could hurt another blind person who 
comes there inthe future, too.
I'm sure that many people have quietly and respectfuly changed 
the attitudes of people in their churches.  I also believe that 
there are some folks, bless them, who  just will "never get it."
Sorry to ramble on, but I don't post very often here on this 
list.  Thank you.
Mary

> ----- Original Message -----
>From: Linda Mentink <mentink at frontiernet.net
>To: faith-talk at nfbnet.org
>Date sent: Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:21:24 -0600
>Subject: [Faith-talk] Blindness and Church

>Hi All,

>I believe that we should worship where we can grow spiritually, 
and
>where we agree with the teachings, not where the leadership will 
let
>us serve.  Conversations with the leaders is appropriate.  The
>question should be, "Lord, where do you want me to worship and 
serve
>You?" not, "what church or denomination will allow me to serve.  
Get
>involved in small ways when you decide you want to be a member, 
and
>above all, pray.  Blind people serve in many capacities; yes, 
even as
>Catholic priests.  It might be appropriate to get in touch with 
one,
>if you're interested in being a priest, and ask that person to be 
an
>advocate for you.  But be sure you are in the Lord's will, not 
your
>own.  Ask if you can do something on a trial basis, if it's 
something
>they don't think a blind person can do.  And, be respectful!

>Over the years, I have been involved in many church
>ministries--prayer chain chairman, deaconess, AWANA leader, 
missions
>committee member, music committee member and chairman, pianist,
>worship planner, choir member, choir director, and soloist.  I 
didn't
>barge in; I just offered.  But it never was, "To me be the glory,
>great things I can do."  Of course, I have been denied 
opportunities,
>but I accepted that as God's will, and was glad to be less busy.


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urtzel%40comcast.net