Are you starting a Special Needs Ministry at your church or in your community?

One of the first things you’ve probably thought about is what you’ll call this ministry.

I’ve curated a list just for you, jotting down names of special needs ministries as I come across them. Here are some special needs ministry names to help get your creative juices flowing as you come up with your own ministry name!

Names for Special Needs Ministry

Embrace

Limitless Kids

Limitless (Church Name)

Unlimited

Mosaic

Soar

Aspire

Thrive

Shine

The Refuge

Inside Out

Hope Kids

Hope Abilities

(Church Name) Abilities

Beyond

In His Image

Joy Ministry

Rising Above

No Limits

Kaleidoscope

Joy Bridge

Circle of Friends

Agape

Elevate

Arise

Special Connections

Wonderfully Made

Treasure Chest Ministry

Exceptional Kidz

Inclusion Ministry

Oasis

Friendship Ministry

Buddies Ministry

(Church Name)Buddies

Rising Above

Access Ministry

Access (Church Name)

Hand in Hand

Image Bearers

Inspire

All Belong

Bridge Builders

Connections

(Church Name) Disability Support

A few things to keep in mind when choosing a ministry name:

1) Seek to include, not separate

The goal of a church special needs ministry should be to INCLUDE, INCORPORATE, and INTEGRATE people with disabilities into the regular life of the church while providing support and adaptions. How does your ministry name reflect this?

Is the name you are considering going to further exclude and separate the people involved or will it inspire connection and integration with the body as a whole?

These are important questions to ask as you decide on a ministry name.

2) make it clear what services your ministry provides

Consider how will you communicate that this ministry serves individuals with disabilities, especially if the name you choose does not include “Special Needs” or “Disabilities” in the name.

A tagline for your ministry name may be helpful to communicate what your ministry is about.

3) Be mindful of the language you use

Please be respectful of individuals and families in the language you use. Don’t allow the words you choose to describe or name your ministry to be condescending. You also want to make sure that the name you choose is age-appropriate. For example, if you are creating a ministry for adults, the name shouldn’t seem childish.

Consider if the term “special needs” is the best for your context. Some people are moving away from this terminology as adults with disabilities speak up about their preferences. Many simply use disability ministry instead. Talk with your families and pastoral staff and get their input. Even knowing you care about terminology will be impactful for families in your church!

I’ll continue to add to this list as I come across more ministries geared toward reaching children, adults, and families with disabilities!

Do you have more ideas? I’d love to hear them! Comment below with your ministry’s name or some names you are considering!