Press Release – 7/20/26
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Association of Ministers with Disabilities (AMD) Announces New Board Leadership, Reaffirming Commitment to Disability Justice and Inclusive Ministry in The United Methodist Church
July 20, 2026
The United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities (AMD), a recognized United Methodist caucus dedicated to advocating for the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in ministry and throughout the life of the Church, is pleased to announce its newly elected Board of Directors.
Founded in 1990 as the Association of Physically Challenged Ministers (APCM), the organization emerged from the faithful work of pioneering disability justice advocates who challenged barriers preventing people with disabilities from responding to God’s call to ministry. In 2009, the organization adopted the name Association of Ministers with Disabilities (AMD) to reflect its expanded mission of supporting people with all disabilities and recognizing the vital ministries of both clergy and laity.
AMD’s mission is to encourage, support, and advocate for people with disabilities who discern a call to ministry and demonstrate the gifts and graces for leadership within The United Methodist Church. The organization also works to educate the Church about the attitudinal, institutional, and systemic barriers that continue to limit opportunities for people with disabilities in ordained and lay ministry. With a new board also includes a new website: www.amd-umc.org
Despite an increasing number of people living with disabilities, AMD remains deeply concerned that the number of persons with disabilities pursuing or serving in professional ministry within The United Methodist Church continues to decline. Through advocacy, education, mentoring, and partnership, AMD seeks to help create a Church where all people are welcomed, empowered, and called into leadership according to their gifts.
2026–2028 AMD Board of Directors
Executive Committee
- Co-Chair: Leo Yates, Elder
- Co-Chair: Russell Ewell, Deacon
- Secretary: Sarah Hassmer, Layperson and Seminarian for the Diaconate
- Treasurer: Greg Edwards, Elder
- Communications Director: Sunny Ahn, Elder
- Episcopal Liaison: Bishop Williamston
- At-Large Member – Disability Ministries Committee (DMC): Mimi Luebbers, Deacon
“The ministry of AMD is rooted in the conviction that every person is created in the image of God and that disability is not a barrier to faithful leadership,” said the newly elected co-chairs. “As we look toward the future, we remain committed to removing barriers, nurturing leaders, and helping The United Methodist Church become a more fully inclusive community where the gifts of people with disabilities are recognized, celebrated, and empowered.”
AMD invites clergy, laity, seminarians, annual conferences, local churches, and allies to partner in its mission by advocating for accessibility, mentoring emerging leaders, and promoting disability justice throughout the denomination.
For more information about the Association of Ministers with Disabilities, membership opportunities, or available resources, visit www.amd-umc.org and where you can also learn about the September Disability Summit in New Orleans.
About the Association of Ministers with Disabilities
The Association of Ministers with Disabilities (AMD) is a United Methodist caucus that advocates for the full participation of persons with disabilities in the life and leadership of The United Methodist Church. Through education, advocacy, networking, and support, AMD works to ensure that people with disabilities are empowered to answer God’s call to ministry and that the Church reflects the inclusive love of Christ for all people.
A Note from the Co-Chairs
We are glad to be co- leading the AMD together, both a Deacon and an Elder with disabilities. We bring commitment, experience and a passion for disability equality and justice in our denomination. We are accessible to our caucus members and our ministry partners. While we carry on the work, we remember the words of Micah 6:8 “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.” Good words to live by.
Respectfully,
Rev. Leo Yates and Rev. Russell Ewing
A Note from the Bishop
The church needs AMD just like AMD needs the church. We continue to live into a beloved community where people with disabilities and non-disabled people live into the kin-dom of God. As the assigned Bishop to AMD, I am committed to supporting the work of the caucus, offering prayers and guidance so its leadership can support the wider church.
With Appreciation,
Bishop Delores Williamston
A Note from GCORR
As the General Secretary of the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), we extend our blessings to the new AMD board. Our partnership with the DMC is an example of our commitment to equality and inclusion of people with disabilities. Our prayers are with you.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Giovanni Arroyo, General Secretary
A Note from UMCD (Deaf caucus)
The United Methodist Congress of the Deaf (UMCD) welcomes the new board. We extend our thanks and prayers for you and your work in supporting the denomination. We at UMCD share your commitment towards disability inclusion while we as a Deaf caucus support the DeafDisabled community. May God bless you all.
Mary Ann Deters, President of UMCD
A Note from DMC
The Disability Ministries Committee (DMC) looks forward to partnering with the new AMD board. This new chapter of AMD offers new beginnings and will be blessed by God.
Rev. Mimi Luebbers, Chair of the DMC
2026 Disability Summit
……………………………………..
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Disability Summit 2026 to Bring United Methodist Leaders Together for Worship, Learning, and Inclusive Ministry
Metairie, Louisiana — Church leaders, disability advocates, clergy, laity, caregivers, and ministry partners are invited to gather for the Disability Summit 2026 at St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church in Metairie, Louisiana. Centered on the theme of Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”, the summit will focus on strengthening disability ministries, promoting accessibility, and fostering a more inclusive church for all.
The one-day event will provide opportunities for worship, education, networking, and meaningful conversations that equip participants to better serve people with disabilities throughout The United Methodist Church.
The summit begins at 9:30 a.m. with a welcome, followed by worship with Holy Communion at 10:00 a.m. Throughout the day, attendees will participate in presentations and discussions on disability justice, trauma-informed care, neurodiversity, and connectional ministry. The program also includes an AMD History presentation, fellowship over lunch, and concludes with a Covenant Service before departure at 3:30 p.m.
Featured sessions include:
- Disability Justice: Inviting Ministry Partners to the Conversation
- Trauma-Informed Care & Disabilities
- Neurodiversity and Sensitizing the Church
- Connectionalism: Disability Ministry Conversations
- AMD History Presentation
- Worship with Holy Communion and Covenant Service
The Disability Summit is designed to encourage collaboration among ministry leaders while providing practical resources for creating welcoming, accessible congregations where every individual can fully participate in the life of the church.
Individuals interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance.
For questions regarding the summit agenda or additional information, please contact:
Rev. Leo Yates
Email: leoyjr@gmail.com
About the Disability Summit
The Disability Summit brings together members of The United Methodist Church and ministry partners committed to advancing accessibility, inclusion, and belonging for people with disabilities. Through worship, education, and collaboration, participants are equipped to strengthen disability ministries within their local churches, annual conferences, and communities.
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