Church hosts ‘Possibility Day’ to promote disability inclusion and awareness in Southwest Michigan

BERRIEN SPPRINGS, Mich. -- About 15 percent to 20 percent of the U.S. population is neurodivergent, meaning that in many community spaces — such as churches — at least one in five individuals may have different needs than their peers.

All Nations Seventh-day Church invited community members to share their struggles and triumphs with disabilities during its first-ever “Possibility Day,” held in honor of Autism Awareness Month.

Organizers said the event was designed not only to advocate for those on the autism spectrum, but also to foster broader conversations about treating people of all ability levels with respect and compassion.

“If you are not aware, as a teacher, with all these different disabilities, you may punish a child instead of supporting them. because you just don’t know,” said Dr. Brigette Hinds, first elder of All Nations Church.

Saturday’s conference highlighted the challenges faced by those on the autism spectrum as well as the struggles of those who are physically disabled, calling for greater accessibility in community spaces, including places of worship.

“I went to have a surgery, and then the next thing I woke up, I was blind. I could not see at all,” said speaker Megdana Gedeon. “I graduated in the seminary, but I’m afraid to apply to the church because I don’t think they have room for me as a blind pastor.”

Guest speakers joined from around the world, including Jamaican Sen. Floyd Morris, who is legally blind and led discussions on how to advocate to policymakers about disability law.

Organizers said the event ultimately aimed to build understanding and connection among attendees.

“That explains why I was like that in second grade, because you’re learning something even about yourself. That’s why my spouse is like that, and you get to understand each other,” Hinds said. “So welcome to Possibilities Day, where everybody has the potential to maximize all that God has given them.”

Organizers said that while this is the first Possibility Day, they plan to hold similar advice events in the future.