Description
In this interactive workshop, we will provide a simple toolkit to interpret the healing stories in the Gospels with a disability lens.
Participants will dive into one of the healing narratives with support from peers and disability experts to exegete scripture. Participants will leave with a lesson plan or preaching outline based on a healing story from the Gospels.
We will also provide simple steps for creating accommodations or modifications for existing Religious Education lessons for audiences of different ages and all abilities.
Workshop Leader: Hunter Steinitz
Hunter Steinitz, MDiv. is a graduate of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, a Candidate for Ordination, and Ruling Elder at Riverview Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. She is also a contributor to the Presbyterian Outlook and disability liberation theologian. Hunter is the oldest woman in the United States with her rare genetic skin condition, and she advocates for the diverse beauty of all beloved children made in the Image of God.
Co-Leader: Marijo Hockley
Marijo has worked with older adults with disabilities, helping them remain in their own homes for as long as possible. God called her to ministry, and she obtained her MDiv. from the Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. Marijo worked for First Presbyterian Church of Warren as the Inclusion Ministry Coordinator. As the Inclusion Ministry Coordinator, she worked with High School students with cognitive disabilities and older adults by developing a mentor program and work-study program. Currently, Marijo serves as Community Life Coordinator for New Life Presbyterian Church. Marijo’s goal for ministry is to demonstrate and encourage all God’s children to actively serve God by sharing every individual’s unique and important spiritual gifts.