‘God is present’ at church for disabled
‘Chaotic’ services include lots of music, singing
The Joy Fellowship congregation can seem a bit unusual at first, says Pastor David Hayward.
“They look visibly different. They cry and moan and sometimes walk in an awkward way,” he says.
The Vancouver church, which is celebrating its 39th year, caters to people with mental and physical disabilities who are not comfortable in traditional settings.
Hayward says they deserve a place that meets their particular needs.
“This is a place where they belong. Where they’re welcome. Where they’re missed if they’re not there. They look forward to our gatherings in a way that their caregivers cannot deny. They see the joy. If Christ Church dissolved in Vancouver, everybody could find another church next week. If Joy Fellowship dissolved, few would find another.”
The members include people with Down syndrome, a chromosomal disorder that is associated with learning disabilities, and cerebral palsy, which affects muscle control and speech.
Sunday services at Joy Fellowship are less formal than traditional routines. Hayward says the result can be “chaotic.”
“We encourage people to participate. They’re not there to watch but to become involved. Whatever they feel the spirit telling them,” he says.
“People come up to the front and want to say something into the microphone. They may tell us they have a sore knee and want people to become aware of that.”
Because of the language difficulties, there is less speaking and more music.
“We recognize that a lot of talk is not very helpful. They’re not auditory learners,” Hayward says.
The band’s musicians, who include a blind performer, play an eclectic set of instruments.
There is a guitar, violin, harmonica, clarinet, bongos and drums. The choir uses sign language.
Hayward says they know their stuff. “Quite a few have favourite songs,” he says.
They include Amazing Grace and Jesus Loves Me. Their simple, repetitive lyrics generate powerful feelings.
“We hope they speak to the hearts of the people we serve,” he says.
“I see people standing up, holding hands, hugging each other and singing.
“I feel like God is present here.”