Stella fell on the ice and broke her knee. Can she still go to church?
My previous post introduced Stella, a faithful donor to her church. Last week, Stella slipped on the ice and broke her knee. Thankfully, it wasn’t her hip. She can stay in her apartment. Stella is going to be in a wheelchair for a couple of weeks and will probably be using a walker into the spring.
Can Stella still go to church? Can she get in the front door? Can she go to the quilting in the basement, or the Bible study upstairs? Can she use the washroom with any dignity?
You might be wondering - Lori, church and money is your topic - why do you care about accessibility?
I have a family member who uses a wheelchair. My extended family is mild-mannered until the topic of accessibility comes up. Then we (mom, sisters) turn into Mama Grizzlies, fiercely protective. Don’t say I didn’t warn you…
Many church buildings are not accessible. The lack of accessibility is a barrier for people like Stella and for people in the community. The state of the church building sends a message about the church’s hospitality.
Stella’s church can afford an elevator
Believe it or not, I’ve met churches (note plural!) who need an elevator desperately, have the funds and won’t spend the money. It breaks my heart that these churches are excluding people like Stella.
Objections I’ve heard:
the money should go to missions instead
our church won’t be here in five years, why renovate?
we need to keep that money to support the church as we shrink
Add fear to this mix, a fear that deciding what to do with the reserve funds might cause more conflict than the church can handle. It’s volatile.
Do not be afraid, little flock
You’ve probably heard the verse “for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Here’s Luke 12:32-34 (NIV). Note that it begins “Do not be afraid, little flock.” Gratitude, and not fear, needs to be our starting point. Gratitude for faithful donors like Stella.
Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Stella’s church might want to install an elevator, move, partner with another organization or any number of creative options. I pray for an openness to new ideas and to asking for help.