Barbara J. Newman

Barbara J. Newman is the director of church services and a teacher consultant for CLC Network and a program affiliate for the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Barbara has written several books on creating a place of welcome in congregations for persons with disabilities, including “Accessible Gospel, Inclusive Worship”, “Helping Kids Include Kids with Disabilities”, “Autism and Your Church”, and “Body Building: Devotions to Celebrate Inclusive Community”. In addition to her books, she has written and edited materials for the ground-breaking, inclusive adult Bible study curriculum, “Together”, published by Friendship Ministries. Barbara often speaks at churches and national conferences, inspiring pastors, worship leaders, volunteers, and ministry leaders to experience the blessing of inclusive community. Barbara was the 2012 recipient of the Christian Service Award from Bethesda Lutheran Communities and the 2015 recipient of the Henri J.M. Nouwen Award. Her classroom at Zeeland Christian School allows her to stay on top of best practices to share with both schools and congregations nationwide.