April 2026

Disability & the Church Conference Recap

Dear Hephzibah62:4 Friend,

Our group of 21 Wesleyans experienced a deeply empowering and eye‑opening Disability & the Church (DATC) Conference last week, one that underscored how vital the church is to individuals and families affected by disability.

Dr. Erik Carter offered a compelling reminder that disability is already present in every church and community, calling us first to faithfully respond to those in our midst. Excellent presenters from a variety of disciplines provided insights and practical tools for more fully including people of all abilities.

Some living with disabilities or raising children with special needs expressed that it was especially meaningful to feel seen, understood, and supported by a community that shares both the calling and the cost of disability ministry.

Beyond the sessions, new and renewed friendships in our Hephzibah62:4 group were a tremendous gift. Connecting with like‑minded believers among the 750+ conference attendees brought encouragement, deeper compassion for parents and caregivers, and renewed passion to ensure every person experiences genuine welcome and belonging in the life of the church.

Our family includes children with special needs, and finding a church where everyone truly belongs can sometimes feel uncertain. From the moment we arrived, we experienced something different here. We were welcomed with genuine warmth, but even more meaningful was how prepared and intentional the church was in making sure each of our family members could fully participate. Because of that care, our entire family has been able to worship, learn and grow together.

– Bri, DATC attendee, on her experience at Ellington Wesleyan Church, CT

Thank you for aligning with and supporting our shared mission to equip and mobilize local Wesleyan churches to transform the lives of vulnerable children. God is using opportunities like DATC to shape and strengthen inclusive ministry, and we’re excited to bring these insights back to our contexts as we continue growing together faithfully.

Consider joining us in 2027! (Scroll down for more information.)

Your co-laborers in transforming the lives of vulnerable children,

Jodi and team

P.S. Have you considered how a commitment to the sanctity of human life extends to caring for and supporting those impacted by disability? In case you missed it, check out The works of God displayed.

Leave a legacy of Kingdom building and transforming the lives of vulnerable children by including your local church and Hephzibah62:4 in your ESTATE PLANNING.

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES

Better Together Gatherings

Join us as we relaunch our Hephzibah62:4 online community gatherings Tuesday, May 12 and Thursday, June 11 from 12:00-1:00pm ET online. Hear from inspiring guest speakers and build community with other Wesleyans committed to our shared mission.

More info and register here to receive meeting details

Hephzibah62:4 @ General Conference

Heading to Indiana Wesleyan University May 17-20, 2026 for General Conference? Please stop by and connect with us at our Hephzibah62:4 booth and check out our Hephzibah62:4 Calming Space (Sensory Room), created for those needing a place to regulate their nervous systems at our Wesleyan conferences, so they can better focus on what God has planned for them.

Save the Date for CAFO2026

We can't wait to gather in Atlanta, GA, September 23-25, 2026. Make plans to join us with others from your church so that together, you can be equipped to transform the lives of vulnerable children in your community more effectively. Grants available.

Learn more here

Save the Date for DATC 2027!

Missed this year's incredible Disability & the Church conference? Plan ahead to join our Hephzibah62:4 collaborative community for DATC 2027, March 9-11, 2027 at Houston's First Baptist Church! Grants available.

Learn more here