Transforming the Lives of Special Needs Children
Author includes discussion on interventions of pastoral care and counseling
Title Transforms Attitudes Toward Families with Special Needs Children
Author includes discussion on interventions of pastoral care and counseling
2010-06-27
LONGWOOD, FL--In a new Xulon Press title, Transforming the Lives of Special Needs Children ($15.99, paperback, 978-1-61579-277-1), Rev. Dr. Juanita D. Pughsley--the parent of a cognitively challenged son--shares how the mission, message, and ministry of Christ can transform the attitudes, actions, and sensitivity of the body of Christ toward families with special needs children. The interventions of pastoral care and counseling are discussed along with suggested do's and don'ts from parents, pastors, and ministry leaders in the faith community.
"Is it all right to intentionally avoid sitting next to a family in church just because they have a special needs child?" the author questions. "Is it all right to exclude from participation in a church activity someone who ambulates differently due to a disability? Is it all right to neglect giving a verbal greeting to a child who is nonverbal and seated in a wheelchair just because they cannot walk or talk?"
For the past 28-plus years, Dr. Pughsley has been an active member of the Mt. Zion Pentecostal Church in Washginton, D.C. She serves her church as the pastor of counseling, a teacher, and a preacher of the Word of God. Additionally, she serves her community as a pediatric physical therapist for her local school system, an ARC board member, and a Special Olympics volunteer for bowling, basketball, and track. She is a parent liaison and advocate for her challenged son and other parents in the community through her Family Connection Ministry.