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It is largely unavoidable that one will encounter a reference in the Bible that either assumes a fully abled body, or casts a pejorative reference toward someone who is differently abled. Blindness is equated to ignorance or lack of understanding, physical ailments are said to be the result of sins in the past, and Jesus Himself calls His followers to "take up their Cross, and follow Him." Well, what if they aren't able to walk? What follows are suggestions for how to avoid ablest assumptions in our own language.
in worship settings
in worship settings
Current Language:
"Please stand as you are able..."
Alternatives:
"Please take your preferred posture of prayer."
"Please assume a posture of prayer."
"Please prepare your hearts and bodies for prayer."
Current Language:
"Please stand for the reading of the Gospel..."
Alternatives:
"Open your hearts for the reading of the Gospel..."
Current Language:
"Hear our prayer..."
Alternatives:
"Receive our prayer..."
"Accept our prayer..."
In mission/partnership & Service
In mission/partnership & Service
Current Language:
"Stand up for..."
"Stand beside..."
Alternatives:
"Be in solidarity with..."
"Advocate on behalf of..."
"Advocate for..."
Current Language:
"Walk alongside..."
Alternatives:
"Accompany..."
"Journey with..."
"Live together in..."
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