Allen Gunn Disability Ministry Recognition

Goals:

 To honor the memory of Allen Gunn, who cared deeply about, and worked tirelessly for, the full inclusion in churches of people.

 To recognize and affirm individuals, congregations, and ecumenical bodies whose commitment and efforts are furthering the vision of inclusive churches affirmed by the Massachusetts and Rhode Island State Councils of Churches in their "The Accessible Church" appeal.

 To raise awareness of disability inclusion in churches, and to offer examples of successful inclusion strategies, by publicizing the annual recognition in church and secular media, in meetings of religious governing bodies, and in other appropriate venues.

 To draw attention to the theological rationale for disability inclusion in "The Accessible Church," and to demonstrate the relationship between disability inclusion and spiritual renewal in congregations.

Criteria:

 The individual or congregation nominated will have made a substantial contribution to the inclusion of people with disabilities in the life of the church, for example, by teaching/ preaching a theology of inclusion; by fostering an attitude of welcome for all; by making facilities, worship, and church activities physically accessible to all; by involving people with disabilities in the life and leadership of the church; or by involving the church in advocacy for people with disabilities in the community and larger society.

 Special consideration will be given to candidates who have been involved in ecumenical initiatives toward the inclusion of people with disabilities.

Procedures:

 Recognition to be made by the MA/RI Disability Network at it’s annual gathering.

 Concept to be approved in advance by the Disability Network and Boards of both Councils of Churches. Disability Network meeting agenda time to be used to invite suggestions for criteria.

 Nomination form to be distributed through newsletters of MCC and RISCC, as well as to be sent to disability network and judicatory offices.

 Committee to review applications to consist of three people each from MA and RI (one staff member each, the President of each state Council of Churches, plus one member from each state who belongs to the disability network), to meet once per year.

AWARD NOMINATION FORM