Why We Started Accessibility to Christ

Barriers to disabled and aging include restriping for accessible parking, ramps to building entries, door widths and thresholds that restrict access, renovation of existing restrooms for turning radius, lavatory height  and knee clearance, replacement of plumbing fixtures that are too low or too high, installation of grab bars, lever style hardware, braille signage, and many other details that are typical construction element of buildings constructed before 1991.


1991 is a key date to note because with the passing of the American’s with Disabilities Act, most church construction projects after this year have many features of accessibility built from the start.   However, many churches have facilities that were originally constructed or expanded in the 1960’s and 1970’s as baby boom increased attendance.    Since the ADA excluded religious facilities from retroactive requirements for accessibility improvements,  many churches that were constructed in the 50’s thru 90’s have not made substantial renovations.  Moreover, these congregations with youth members in the baby boom now have larger populations of seniors.   As a result, foregoing accessibility improvements of the past 30 years has resulted in a double consequence today.   First the aging population has a higher need for accessibility features.  Secondly, an aging population is entering retirement where income is tighter and tithing is reduced.   There is also a reality that older populations also seek and find Christ as they contemplate their mortality and have a life of wisdom to recognize God’s hand in their life.    So, Accessibility to Christ was formed to address the growing need for removal of barriers on local churches with the aim to retain attendance by believers and welcome new believers to His Kingdom.