Transforming the Lives of Special Needs Children

Is it all right to intentionally avoid sitting next to a family in church just because they have a special needs child? Is it all right to exclude from participation in a church activity someone who ambulates differently due to a disability? Is it all right to neglect giving a verbal greeting to a child, who is nonverbal and seated in a wheelchair, just because they cannot walk or talk? In Transforming the Lives of Special Needs Children Rev. Dr. Juanita Pughsley, the parent of a cognitively challenged son, shares how the mission, message and ministry of Christ can transform the attitudes, actions, and sensitivity of the Body of Christ toward families with special needs children. The interventions of Pastoral Care and Counseling are discussed along with suggested Do's and Don'ts from Parents, Pastors and Ministry Leaders in the faith community. For the past 28+ years Rev. Dr. Juanita Pughsley has been an active member of the Mt. Zion Pentecostal Church, in Washington D.C. Dr. Pughsley serves her church as the Pastor of Counseling, a Teacher and Preacher of the Word of God. She serves her community as a Pediatric Physical Therapist for her local school system, an ARC Board Member, and as a Special Olympics Volunteer for Bowling, Basketball and Track. She is a Parent Liaison and advocate for her challenged son and other parents in the community through her "Family Connection Ministry."