Brevard Local Advances Disability Ministry Motion at Southern Baptist State Convention

Florida’s Southern Baptist churches may soon launch a statewide effort to strengthen disability ministry. A motion introduced at the Florida Baptist Convention on Thursday, Nov. 13 calls for the creation of a task force to study how churches can better serve the 2.8 million Floridians with disabilities.

The motion was brought forward by Doug Rothenbush of First Baptist Church of Merritt Island. It requests a formal study of current resources, best practices, church engagement, and ways to build local ministry networks. The proposal was referred to the State Board of Missions for further review.

“I am so grateful for all the great counsel I received in building this motion, especially Cody Watson, Christa Smith, Sandra Wood Peoples, Dr. Mike Beates, Justin P. Rennert and Randy Schwartz" Rothenbush said in a Facebook post in Christians of Brevard County. "It has been referred to the Missions Board like we wanted it to be. I’m looking forward to seeing what comes out of this over the next couple of years.”

If approved, the task force would coordinate its work with the Southern Baptist Convention’s national Disability Ministry Task Force. Findings and recommendations are expected to be presented at the 2026 Florida Baptist Convention annual meeting in Orlando.

Rothenbush’s statewide effort grows out of his leadership in Brevard County. He directs the Brevard Special Needs Ministry Network, launched in 2024 to help churches across denominations create intentional, supportive environments for individuals with disabilities. What began as a Bible study class he started at First Baptist Merritt Island has expanded into a county-wide collaboration equipping churches for worship, fellowship, and discipleship among people of all abilities.

The network meets on the third Thursday of each month, except November and December, offering practical training and shared learning for churches seeking to strengthen their special needs ministries. More information can be found by joining the network's Facebook group or by reaching out to Doug at [email protected].

— Christians of Brevard is a multi-church initiative that seeks to amplify the voices of local churches and ministries for the purpose of encouraging the local body of Christ and advancing the Kingdom of God. Join our Facebook community @ChristiansOfBrevard