Support System

By Julie Duffin
August 2025 View more Community

Fifteen years ago, the Good Shepherd Church in Naperville decided to make itself more accessible. It sounds simple enough, but the results have been profound.

What started as a way to support a few families has since grown into a vital part of the church’s mission and identity. Its All Abilities Ministry provides one-on-one buddies for kids of different abilities, a sensory room, and other accommodations, such as fidgets and other comforts. The goal is for all children to be able to participate with their peers. “We believe that church should be a place where everybody has access to God,” explains Tara Beth Leach, senior pastor.

By creating this welcoming environment and serving families affected by disabilities, the ministry’s reach has grown. “Families now come to our church specifically for this ministry,” Leach says. “Other congregations may not be as informed, so when a child makes noise during worship, it might make them uncomfortable. Here, it’s so much a part of our culture, that when a child makes noise, we see it as a sign of spring—a sign of life.”

Children who are overstimulated in the worship setting can instead visit the sensory room and enjoy a quiet zone or swing. Volunteers there work with each child based on their own unique needs and engage them in activities or accompany them in a Sunday school class.

While the ministry supports people from birth through high school, it’s also creating pathways for young adults and beyond. “It’s not just about attending worship,” Leach says. “It’s about having purpose. Everyone has gifts to share.” For example, 27-year-old Micah volunteers by watering the church plants each week. “It gives him joy and purpose and he brings such joy to everyone who sees him.”

MORE SUPPORT
“Families with children of various abilities find Good Shepherd to be a safe, nurturing, and loving place, not only for their kids, but for them as well,” Leach says. “We have a thriving small group for parents who find commonality with one another and understand the journey they’re on.”

Good Shepherd also offers monthly respite opportunities called Buddy Breaks. During these events, children with disabilities are paired with a buddy and engage in fun activities, giving parents time to shop, have coffee, or just take a break.

ALL ABILITIES FAIR
Last year the ministry expanded its range even further by partnering with Front Porch Ministry and hosting its first annual All Abilities Fair. The market provides a no-cost opportunity for entrepreneurs with disabilities to sell their products. Open to the public, it’s held in September and rotates between Good Shepherd and Community Christian Church.

“People don’t always have eyes to see the roadblocks that our world often creates for those with a disability,” Leach says. “When you are in an environment that removes those barriers, you start to have more of a sensitive eye and more empathy. And, I think our world could use a little bit more empathy.”

The second annual All Abilities Fair is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at Community Christian Church (1635 Emerson Lane, Naperville) with vendors, food, and activities for the whole family.

Photos: Good Shepherd Church