Defining Disability: Why It Matters To The Episcopal Church

When we talk about building a more inclusive church, one of the first and most important steps is understanding what we mean by “disability.” The term itself covers a wide range of conditions and experiences — physical, emotional, intellectual, and sensory. For churches committed to the radical welcome of Christ, learning the language of disability is not just helpful — it’s holy work.

What is Disability?

Disability is often defined as a physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition that substantially limits or impairs one or more major life activities. But beyond clinical or legal definitions, disability is also a deeply personal and social experience. It can shape how people navigate the world, form relationships, access worship, or participate in ministry.

In everyday church life, disability can mean anything from a person using a wheelchair to someone living with anxiety to a child with a developmental delay. While there’s no one-size-fits-all experience, understanding the range of disabilities can help us become more compassionate and proactive in welcoming everyone into our communities.

Types of Disabilities

Disabilities can take many forms — and many are not immediately visible. Here’s a general overview of some common categories:

• Chronic Illness: Conditions like lupus, Crohn’s disease, or chronic fatigue syndrome that persist over time and impact daily living.
• Communication Disorders: Challenges with speaking, understanding, or using language. This can include stuttering, aphasia, or speech delays.
• Developmental Disabilities: A group of conditions that begin in childhood and may impact physical, learning, language, or behavior areas (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome).
• Hearing Disabilities: Ranges from mild hearing loss to complete deafness. Some individuals use hearing aids or cochlear implants; others use sign language as a primary form of communication.
• Intellectual Disabilities: Conditions characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, such as reasoning, learning, and problem-solving.
• Learning Disabilities: Includes dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other processing disorders that affect the way individuals absorb and express information.
• Mental Health Disabilities: Conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia can significantly impact how people think, feel, and relate to others.
• Neurological Disabilities: These involve the nervous system and can include epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, and Parkinson’s disease.
• Physical Disabilities: Conditions that affect mobility, dexterity, or physical stamina — such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, or amputations.
• Visual Disabilities: Includes both low vision and complete blindness. Some people use canes, screen readers, or Braille to navigate and communicate.

Visible and Invisible Disabilities

Some disabilities are apparent — like someone using a mobility aid or having a visible difference — while others are not. Invisible disabilities, like chronic pain, ADHD, or hearing loss, may not be noticed at all by others, yet still deeply affect the person’s ability to engage in worship, participate in ministries, or access church events.

It’s essential not to assume someone’s abilities or limitations based solely on their appearance. A member of your congregation may be managing a condition you don’t know about — and showing up to church may be a significant act of faith and resilience.

Congenital, Acquired, and Temporary Disabilities

Another way to understand disability is by looking at when or how it occurs:

• Congenital disabilities are present from birth, such as spina bifida or genetic syndromes.
• Acquired disabilities may result from an illness, accident, or aging, like losing vision later in life or experiencing a stroke.
• Temporary disabilities — such as recovering from surgery or injury — are short-term but can still significantly impact access and inclusion.

No matter when or how a disability develops, the church is called to respond with love, flexibility, and creative compassion.

Why Understanding Disability Terminology Matters

Taking the time to understand disability terminology isn’t about being politically correct — it’s about honoring people’s lived experiences and recognizing the diversity of ways we navigate the world. Knowing the differences between congenital and acquired disabilities, visible and invisible conditions, or mental health and physical challenges helps us approach others with greater empathy and awareness.

In the Episcopal Church, where we proclaim that all are made in the image of God and all are welcome at the table, this understanding becomes even more essential. Learning the language of disability is the first step toward building a truly inclusive church — one where every person is seen, valued, and empowered to fully participate in the life of the Body of Christ.

When we speak with care, act with intention, and create spaces that reflect the breadth of human ability, we live out the gospel call to love one another — not in word or speech alone, but in truth and action.

The Book of Common Prayer reminds us that the church is “the Body of which Jesus Christ is the Head and of which all baptized persons are members.” If that’s true — and we believe it is — then every member, regardless of ability, has a rightful place and a meaningful role in our shared life of worship, service, and fellowship.