Rev. Jason Forbes works at Jericho Road as the Disability Advocate. His role involves encouraging churches to be more inclusive of people with disabilities and equipping them to do that. Jason lives with Cerebral Palsy which affects his speech and overall movement. He is an ordained Presbyterian minister and holds a Masters of Theology.
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Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25–37 is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible, yet its implications for how we love and include people—especially those with disabilities—remain deeply challenging. Being a good neighbour isn’t just about being polite or welcoming. It’s about being vulnerable, sacrificial, generous, and intentional.
When it comes to kids and youth ministry, we need to do more than just include children with disabilities. We need to value them, learn from them, and ensure they are active participants in our communities. As Rev. Jason Forbes, Disability Advocate at Jericho Road puts it, “Including kids and youth with disabilities really starts with the idea that we all bear God’s image. That in itself warrants respect.”
Being a good neighbour means being vulnerable
Jason says that “showing mercy involves being vulnerable.” The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) risked his own safety to care for the wounded man.
Similarly, welcoming and loving kids with disabilities in our ministries may feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable at times. It may mean stepping outside our comfort zones, learning about different needs, and being willing to ask questions. But real love means moving towards people, even when it challenges us.
Being a good neighbour means being sacrificial
Loving kids and youth with disabilities requires time, effort, and often a change in the way we do things. Jason highlights how the Samaritan used his own resources to care for the wounded man. “The bandages likely came from his own clothing.”
Likewise, in kids and youth ministry, making programs inclusive might mean adapting activities, rethinking teaching methods, or giving extra time to certain children. It may mean sacrificing personal convenience for the sake of making sure every child can fully engage.
Being a good neighbour means doing extra
The Samaritan didn’t just bandage the man’s wounds; he put him on his own animal and walked instead. He took on extra burden to ensure the man was cared for.
In our ministries, going the extra mile for kids with disabilities could look like:
- Learning about individual needs – Asking parents or carers what would help their child feel comfortable and included.
- Adjusting communication – Using visual aids, sign language, or simplified explanations so that everyone can understand.
- Providing sensory-friendly spaces – Creating quiet areas or adjusting lighting and sound levels for kids with sensory sensitivities.
It’s easy to assume that if a child with a disability is simply present, we’ve done enough. But real love asks, “Are they thriving? Are they fully included?”
Being a good neighbour means being generous
The Good Samaritan paid for the man’s care and even promised to cover any additional costs. “This is radical generosity,” Jason notes. True inclusion requires generosity—not just in finances, but in our time, attention, and patience. It means investing in accessibility, resourcing leaders, and ensuring our churches reflect God’s love in practical ways.
Being a good neighbour means following up
Perhaps the most striking part of the Samaritan’s actions is his follow-up. He didn’t just drop the man off at the inn and forget about him—he planned to return.
In kids and youth ministry, we must be intentional about ongoing care for kids and youth with disabilities and their families. It’s not just about welcoming them once, but continually supporting them, checking in, and making adjustments as needed.
Practical steps for churches
Loving and valuing kids with disabilities in our ministries starts with intentionality.
Here are some practical ways to ensure our programs are truly inclusive:
- Physical accessibility – Ensure ramps, accessible toilets, and seating arrangements allow full participation.
- Inclusive activities – Plan events with accessibility in mind, ensuring all kids can take part.
- Adapted teaching – Use storytelling, visuals, and hands-on activities to help kids with different learning styles engage with God’s Word.
- Sensory awareness – Be mindful of noise, lighting, and space to support kids with sensory sensitivities.
- Relational inclusion – Encourage kids and leaders to form genuine friendships with kids and youth with disabilities, not just treat them as a ‘ministry project.’
A culture of Christlike love
Being a good neighbour to kids and youth with disabilities is about more than accommodation—it’s about genuine love. As Jason challenges us, “The most important opportunities in life involve how we relate to God and others, not what we can and can’t do.”
Our ministries should reflect this truth. Every child is created by God, loved by him, and able to grow in their relationship with him. Let’s disciple the next generation to love all their neighbours—including those with disabilities—with the mercy, generosity, and sacrifice of Christ himself.