In this season finale of Inclusive Occupations, we turn our attention to a topic often left at the margins—but one that belongs at the heart of our conversations: spirituality—defined as a deep sense of connection to something greater than oneself, often rooted in the search for meaning, purpose, and belonging.

Our guest, Jeropha Shekinah, is a mother and graduate student specializing in religious ministries for individuals with disabilities and their families. She shares her transformative journey shaped by the birth and diagnosis of her son, Jeriel, who lives with autism and intellectual disabilities.

Together, Dr. Sundar and Jeropha explore themes rarely addressed in traditional faith or disability dialogues—how religious communities can either empower or unintentionally alienate, and how spirituality can serve as a wellspring of strength, clarity, and belonging for families navigating the world of disability.

Topics Explored:

• ​Parenting without a manual—but guided by divine wisdom
• ​Moving from “fixing” to fully accepting
• ​Finding unexpected moments of community and grace
• ​Challenging cultural assumptions and religious misconceptions
• ​Advocating for joy, choice, and strengths-based inclusion in schools and worship spaces

Key Takeaways:

• ​Every child brings unique strengths—if we have the eyes to see them.
• ​Inclusion isn’t about tolerance; it’s about celebrating the image of God in every individual.
• ​Faith communities must break theological and cultural barriers to foster true inclusion.
• ​Educational systems must shift from deficit-based to strengths-based support.

Resources Shared by Guest Jeropha:

• ​Joni and Friends – A global Christian disability organization offering church training and family retreats
• ​“Autism and Your Church” by Barbara Newman – A practical guide for faith-based inclusion
• ​Special Needs Family Ministry Program – Dallas Baptist University
• ​Every Child is Welcome by Katie Wetherbee & Jolene Philo
• ​Leading a Special Needs Ministry by Amy Fenton Lee

Call to Action:

• ​Re-examine how your school or faith community views disability
• ​Learn from lived experience, not just theory
• ​Embrace an inclusion that goes beyond rhetoric—grounded in empathy, access, and joy