Epiphany is embarking on an exploratory year in a new area of ministry, funded by a Diocesean Congregational Development Grant. This new ministry is called Lighthouse: a multigenerational mission of radical discipleship and community across perceived boundaries.
Many ministry leaders here have seen a real and present need to grow in ministry for and with those with neurodiversity, disabilities, and mental health challenges. This grant will allow us to begin this work together. Radical welcome is a deeply rooted value of ours at Epiphany. The wisdom and heart we need to enter this work is here. This year, Lighthouse will prayerfully, vulnerably, and experimentally explore the ways that we can grow deeper into God's call for us to be a house of prayer for all people.
This exploratory year has two bookends.
First, on October 27, we will welcome guest preacher Kevin Lazarus. Rev. Lazarus will preach at both services, and then hold an adult forum at 11:15am. He is an Emory doctoral candidate whose research lies at the intersection of Christian theology and disability studies. Rev. Lazarus will help us all begin to understand how, as followers of Christ and the people of his church, we are called to care and respond. We hope you will join us.
In the spring, we will welcome the Rev. Lindsay Lunnum among us. Rev. Lunnum will help us all to consider the intersections of worship, liturgy, and neurodivergence.
Between these two events, for parents and caregivers on a journey of raising a child with neurodivergence, mental health challenges, or disabilities: we invite you to join Dr. Brian Litzenberger, our clergy, and Bryn for four sessions where we will engage in listening, support, and collaboration, and ask where the Spirit is leading us next. If you are interested in joining the parent/caregiver group, please fill out this form.
For some reading right now, you have already self-identified. But, maybe, you’re not sure if we mean your family. You feel like you’re out of the bounds of what is typical. You know parenting is hard, but you are climbing through extra hard parenting and you need support. This group is also for you. Part of what this year is about is exploring this new space together.
If you are interested in joining the parent/caregiver group, please fill out this form. If you have questions, please reach out to Bryn Hollenbeck.
For the entire congregation, young and old, neurotypical and neurodivergent: this is a ministry for all of us. This grant is not simply for families; it is not solely about disability and neurodivergence. This grant is about every one of us, and how we are the church. Thank you for being a part of Lighthouse.
