Access to truth
Limited vocabulary and comprehension, together with little or no reading skills often mean that the language used in church fails to communicate effectively. How so? Difficult words like sanctify and salvation, words with an alternative meaning like save, hail and reign, and the use of metaphor and simile can all serve to confuse rather than clarify.
So what? We need to simplify our language and be willing to spend time and patience as people get to grips with the truth about God. A few small adjustments in the Sunday service will help people to feel at home and more able to join in.
A special house group for people with learning disabilities has been very successful in many churches. Simplified teaching materials and interactive worship songs make it easier for people to learn from the Bible and respond to God in worship, regardless of reading or memory skills.