I hope this newsletter finds you well as we prepare for the upcoming seasons of Thanksgiving and celebrations of God in our lives. There is much going on in the division and many ways for you to participate!
I hope this newsletter finds you well as we prepare for the upcoming seasons of Thanksgiving and celebrations of God in our lives. There is much going on in the division and many ways for you to participate!
First and foremost, I wish to announce that the work of the division this year is dedicated to the memory of Nella Uitvlugt, a former division president and Executive Director of Friendship Ministries. In the spirit of Nella, who energetically advanced all work forward, let this be a year full of progress! She will also be awarded the Henri Nouwen Award posthumously for all the contributions she made in furthering the participation of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in congregational life.
THANK YOU to all of you who responded to our survey regarding spirituality and congregational participation support. You can view a summary of responses here. If you volunteered for one of the various committee groups, send me an email at masteranrcan@gmail.com. If you did not respond to the survey, it is still available here or feel free to send me an email if you would like to be involved.
I am happy to announce that Rick Benjamin and Rosemarie Newberry have successfully completed the spiritual support professional certification process. Congratulations Rick and Rosemarie! Thank you also to our certification committee: David Morstad, Bill Gaventa, Catherine Patterson, Craig Modahl and Sara Rieth.
Stay tuned for announcements about webinars in the winter and spring. The division will be working with the UCEDD (University Centers of Excellence on Developmental Disabilities) Collaborative. David Morstad is the division liaison for that activity.
APPEAL FOR HELP: To anyone with internet expertise to administer the division newsletter. Christopher Philips has been doing an AMAZING job, but will need to step back after our December newsletter. Anyone interested in picking up the torch, please check in with Christopher for more information on what’s involved at PhillipsCJ@ldschurch.org.
Remember to put next year’s annual conference on your calendar, June 23 – 26 in Orlando FL. Definitely a great spot to visit! I hope you can make it.
Please note my new email below. This is different than the one posted in the last newsletter. I am sorry for the inconvenience, but am experiencing technical issues in my new location.
God’s Peace,
Anne Masters
, masteranrcan@gmail.com
AAIDD Religion & Spirituality Network 