Embracing Ministries nurtures the spiritual life of families, children and young people with special needs. The service also educates churches on practical ways they can further support families of children and young people who are living with a disability.
Anglicare’s partnership with Embracing Ministries is currently providing chaplaincy support for people accessing disability services in the ACT. There is an aim to grow the partnership with Embracing Ministries also providing retreats, music groups and mentoring programs.
Reverend Andrea de Vaal Horcui is chaplain with Embracing Ministries. She now works several days each fortnight at Anglicare’s Holt disability services. Her aim is to provide specialised pastoral care and support to the young people at the service.
“I think in many places the spiritual life of children and young people are forgotten,” says Andrea. “Even though there is a clear lack in this area, we are delighted to see that more and more churches and organisations like Anglicare are taking up the challenge to provide more inclusive services for people living with a disability. We want to make sure that children and young people with a disability, as well as their families, feel supported and included. Specialised chaplaincy is an important part in achieving this.”
Embracing Ministries also facilitates music sessions for young people to help them discover new outlets for self-expression.
