Commentary

Himalayan Section Observes Adventist Possibility Ministries Sabbath

People with disabilities were celebrated and affirmed.

Umesh Kumar Pokharel, Director Adventist Possibility Ministries, Himalayan Section
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Himalayan Section Observes Adventist Possibility Ministries Sabbath
Rajapas Adventist church in eastern Nepal after the Saturday (Sabbath) church service on April 24. [Photo: Dhanlal Rai]

On April 20, a special Saturday (Sabbath) was observed in the Himalayan Section of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for people with disabilities, both within the churches and the wider communities. People with disabilities are often neglected and looked down upon, leading them to live a life of sadness and isolation.

Several churches in the Himalayan Section, which includes the country of Nepal, organized various programs for people with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities from both the churches and communities were recognized for their contributions and given special gifts. Prayers were also offered for them, recognizing their importance and value.

Despite their disabilities, these individuals can still be active and productive in many areas of their lives. Therefore, it is important for the church to have special programs that properly care for, nurture, and respect them, ensuring they do not feel left out or useless.

In the eyes of God, all people are equally made and have different talents. It is crucial that people with disabilities are involved in God’s ministries and can be effective tools for reaching others.

Adventist Possibility Ministries (APM) is a General Conference-sponsored ministry that views those with disabilities through the transforming lens of possibilities — what individuals can do and what they can become because of God’s grace. It is a movement that focuses on the strengths and possibilities of seven groups: the deaf; the blind; the physically immobile; those with mental health challenges; orphans and vulnerable children; those in mourning over the loss of a spouse; and caregivers for these people groups. APM affirms that people go where they are welcomed and stay where they are valued, and that all are gifted, needed, and treasured.

Umesh Kumar Pokharel, Director Adventist Possibility Ministries, Himalayan Section

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