Kids always have been integral to Stephen “Doc” Hunsley’s calling. As a pediatrician, he tended to the physical needs of a variety of children. For the past decade, though, Hunsley’s work took him in a different direction, leading SOAR, a…
Artist brings Enneagram to life through series of 30 paintings
Much has been written about the popularity of the Enneagram, an ancient personality typing system. For Michelle B. Noah, a Dallas-based artist, the Enneagram has been more than a tool for self-understanding: It has served as a muse for her…
These churches will resume in-person gatherings only when it’s safe for all
As the COVID-19 pandemic approaches the one-year mark, churches continue to grapple with when — and how — to reopen for in-person worship and other activities. Some already have reopened, albeit with restrictions such as masks and social distancing in…
Thanksgiving looks different at churches but the spirit of helping goes on
As families rethink their Thanksgiving plans amid the COVID-19 pandemic, so too have churches. In accordance with public health guidelines, many congregations have shelved plans for churchwide meals and high-touch canned food drives. For example, Melissa United Methodist Church in…
How a Baptist educator and businessman’s simple plan gave rise to the health insurance industry
As Americans debate and fret over how — or whether — they will have health insurance in the days ahead, might they once again look to Baptists for a solution? The creator of modern health insurance was a Baptist layman…
USC study finds Blacks three times more likely to be stopped by police in LA County
A new study from the University of California offers concrete data on the meaning of “systemic racism” in policing — data not surprising to two Baptists with front-row seats to issues of policing and criminal justice. The USC report analyzed police…
So you think you want to start a special needs ministry?
Huge strides have been made in the past few decades for people with disabilities, especially in the areas of building accessibility and access to education, jobs and health care. One area of opportunity remains involvement and inclusion in church. Consider:…
At this church, ‘special needs’ are nothing out of the ordinary
For many families, the most challenging aspect of going to church on Sunday morning is getting out the door: making sure everyone is dressed, fed and in the car on time and in one piece. For families who have children…
As Americans with Disabilities Act turns 30, barriers remain
When you think about marginalized communities, who do you envision? Most Americans do not think to include a key group — people with disabilities. This week marks a major milestone for this marginalized community, with the 30th anniversary of the…