Joni and Friends "Through the roof" conference 2006

This past weekend was the Joni and Friends "Through the roof" conference. There were 2 excellent keynote presentations as well as 3 breakout sessions across the day
Saturday. But for me, the highlight was Joni's presentation on Friday night. I have had the opportunity to hear her on several occasions and she is always great. However, this past Friday night, she was simply amazing. She riveted me as she spoke about ministry to persons with disabilities as being or becoming a "life and death" matter. She cited efforts at prenatal diagnosis and abortion, infanticide and euthanasia. She was very powerful as she informed her position with life experiences from her own life as well as those to whom she has ministered over the years. Anyway, I am hoping that either a recording or the actual text of the presentation will be made available. I actually felt as if the presentation had significance historically, particularily if it is made available to a larger audience.

It was reported that there were over 300 attendees from 21 states and even a few foriegn countries. It could actually be that the Church is waking up to the needs of persons with disabilities although there is still a very long way to go. I always feel encouraged after attending the conference both in that there are co-workers in attempting to open the church, and that people are experiencing the same frustration that I sometimes experience.

If you are a regular reader of this blog, you should consider attending the Through the Roof conference when it comes to your area of the world. Check out the Joni and Friends organization website http://www.joniandfriends.org/ to find more information or to contact them.

McNair