A Ministry Built on Belonging
Why Accessible Disciples Began
Accessible Disciples was born out of a simple but pressing reality: many families affected by disability long to be part of a church community, but too often they encounter barriers instead of belonging. As a lifelong special education teacher and ministry volunteer, I witnessed firsthand how churches sought to welcome every family but often lacked the necessary training, resources, and confidence to meet the unique needs of these families.
What began as a local effort in my own church to create space for individuals with disabilities to learn about Jesus, grow in faith, and participate fully in the life of the church has grown into a broader ministry. Accessible Disciples was created to equip churches everywhere with the tools they need to build inclusive programs—programs where individuals with disabilities are not only cared for but discipled, empowered, and invited to use their God-given gifts.
At its heart, Accessible Disciples exists to make sure no family ever feels like church is out of reach. Every person should know that they are seen, valued, and welcomed as part of the body of Christ.
Meet Julie
Julie Brickhouse is the founder of Accessible Disciples, a ministry dedicated to equipping churches to welcome and disciple individuals with disabilities and their families. With over 30 years of experience as a special education teacher and mentor, Julie has combined her professional expertise with her passion for ministry to create resources, training, and curriculum that help churches develop inclusive and accessible programs.
Her journey into special needs ministry began in her own church, where she helped develop and lead programs designed to support children and adults with disabilities, provide care for families, and train volunteers. Recognizing the need across many congregations, Julie expanded her vision by creating Accessible Disciples, offering churches a practical blueprint for launching and sustaining ministries for individuals with special needs.
Through speaking, training, and resource development, Julie helps faith communities move beyond awareness into action—creating environments where individuals with disabilities are not only included but actively discipled and encouraged to use their gifts in the body of Christ. Her mission is simple but powerful: to see every church become a place where everyone belongs, everyone serves, and everyone grows in Christ together.
Our Mission
Accessible Disciples equips churches to welcome, disciple and support individuals with disabilities and their families buy providing training, curriculum and practical tools for inclusive ministry.
Our Vision
We envision a church where every person—regardless of ability—is fully included in the body of Christ, growing in faith, using their God-given gifts, and experiencing true belonging in the family of believers.
Our Core Values
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Every person is created in the image of God and deserves a place in the body of Christ.
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Churches should be safe, welcoming, and barrier-free for individuals of all abilities.
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True inclusion means not only care, but opportunities to grow in faith and share one’s gifts.
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Training and resources provide churches with the confidence to move from intention to action.
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Ministry is rooted in the love of Christ, expressed through patience, kindness and understanding.
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Families, volunteers, and churches work together to support individuals with disabilities.
Whether you’re a pastor, a parent, or a volunteer, you can be part of making the church a place for everyone.
Explore our curriculum kits or reach out—we’d love to connect.