Podcast is live! Tune into: This Unexpected Life Podcast Real Stories, Real Hope In This Unexpected Journey.

Why Disability Ministry Isn’t One-Sided (And What the Church Is Missing) with Barb Stanley

Eps. 43

Date: 3/24/26

Title: Why Disability Ministry Isn’t One-Sided (And What the Church Is Missing) with Barb Stanley

Summary: What happens when the life you planned falls apart—and God builds something completely unexpected in its place? In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie sits down with Barb Stanley, founder of Wonderful Works Ministry, to talk about losing everything she thought defined her success… and discovering a deeper calling rooted in surrender, identity, and purpose.

Barb shares how her journey through career loss, disappointment, and shame led to the unexpected birth of a ministry that is now helping churches across the country become more accessible to families impacted by disability.

Listen here

Together, they unpack:

  • The truth about identity and why your worth is not tied to what you do
  • A harmful misconception about disability ministry in the church
  • The scripture often misused when talking about disability—and why it matters
  • How families impacted by disability are essential to the future and revival of the Church
  • Practical ways churches and families can begin working together

If you’ve ever felt unseen, exhausted, or like you don’t belong in church because of your child’s needs—this conversation will remind you: your story matters, your presence matters, and you are deeply needed in the Kingdom of God.

Resources:
Barb’s Facebook & Instagram
Wonderful Works Ministry

If you enjoyed the show:

Why Disability Ministry Isn’t One-Sided (And What the Church Is Missing) with Barb Stanley

Interested in being a guest on the show? Let’s Connect!

Find me on Substack

Connect on Socials

Join my Newsletter

  1. Desperate Prayers and Deep Faith: Finding God in Long-Term Caregiving and Loss with Rachel Wojo
  2. From Disability to Calling: Finding Purpose, Identity & Joy in Christ with Anna Harp (Part 2)
  3. Cerebral Palsy, Faith & Overcoming Fear: A Teen’s Journey from Feeling “Less Than” to Trusting God With Anna Harp (Part 1)

This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Likewise, anything listed as resources is shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide in what you hold onto and set aside.

Discover more from Carrie M. Holt

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading