Hope Through the Roof: Transforming Lives in Rwanda

Hope Through the Roof: Transforming Lives in Rwanda

Group portrait of about 40 people in Rwanda, both men, women and children, outside a church building.

In August 2025, a series of powerful events unfolded, transforming lives in Rwanda as part of the Roofbreaker initiative from Through the Roof, in partnership with a local charity FoH in Rwanda. These gatherings—in Kamonyi and Kayonza Districts—brought together parents, pastors, community leaders, and disabled people to share stories, learn, and build a more inclusive future.

Breaking Barriers in Kamonyi

The Roofbreaker training in Kamonyi opened with heartfelt prayers and a clear mission: to equip local leaders with the tools and compassion needed to support people with disabilities. Pastor Davis and his wife Ruth shared the biblical inspiration behind Through the Roof, reminding participants of the story where friends lowered a paralysed man through a roof to reach Jesus—a symbol of determination and love.

Participants formed discussion groups to tackle pressing questions:

  • Cultural taboos: Families often hide children with disabilities due to shame. Churches and communities must challenge these beliefs and promote dignity and inclusion.
  • Legal protections: Rwanda’s National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) was praised for its grassroots structure and commitment to rights.
  • Church inclusion: Churches were urged to count, include, and empower people with disabilities—especially through sign language training and inclusive projects.
  • Self-reliance: Co-operatives and vocational training were highlighted as key to reducing dependence on foreign aid.

The day ended with sign language lessons and a message of compassion from Pastor Jacques, reinforcing the importance of seeing every person as valuable.

Parent Workshops: Stories of Strength and Faith

The parent workshops in Kamonyi and Kayonza were filled with emotion, testimony, and transformation. Though planned for a modest number, attendance surged—proof of the deep hunger for hope and connection.

One father, Bizimana Alex, shared how his child crawled until age four due to a disability. Despite the challenges, he spoke with pride and love, urging other parents to embrace their children fully.

Nirere Vestine, a mother born with a disability, recounted her journey through trauma, motherhood, and resilience. Her child was also born with a disability, yet she expressed profound gratitude for life and the strength she found in the workshop community.

Nyirahabimana Adeline, a visually impaired woman, received an audio Bible and shared how she had long struggled to access God’s Word. “This marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life,” she said, her joy palpable.

Umuhoza Aline, a 14-year-old with low vision, had dreamed of owning an audio Bible. Her parents couldn’t afford one, but thanks to the training, she finally received it. “Now I can grow in my knowledge of God’s Word,” she said with a smile.

Other parents—like Sophia, Ruth, and Marie—who couldn’t read or write, expressed joy at being able to hear Scripture for the first time. “Now our ears will hear what God’s Word says,” they said.

Empowerment and Legacy in Kayonza

In Kayonza, the focus shifted to legacy and empowerment. Pastor Davis challenged participants to think beyond material inheritance and consider lives they impact. Groups discussed how to:

  • Economically empower people with disabilities through education and vocational training.
  • Support visible disabilities with tailored assistance and protection.
  • Build relationships by changing attitudes and avoiding harmful language.
  • Fight exclusion by making churches accessible and welcoming.
  • Create lasting impact through education, inclusion, and advocacy.

An East African man sat on a chair next to a Rwandan man seated, holding crutches, who is being presented with an audio Bible.

The stories of Christella Shenga (who has a hearing impairment) and Simon Kwizera (physically disabled) stood out. Christella was thrilled to receive a Bible and committed to encouraging others like her. Simon, denied education by his family, found hope in the audio Bible and shared his desire to grow spiritually.

The Chairperson of Rwanda Interfaith Churches was so moved that he donated two pigs to support people with disabilities and called for more regular training sessions.

A Movement of Hope

These events were more than workshops—they were a movement of hope, inclusion, and transformation. Audio and printed Bibles were distributed, sign language was taught, and meals were shared. Most importantly, hearts were changed.

As one participant said, “This training has changed our mindset. We now see our children not as burdens, but as blessings.”

If you want to inspire hope and change hearts and minds towards disability inclusion overseas, then please consider giving, volunteering or praying to support our International Roofbreaker events. 

Group photo of about 30 people in Rwanda, both men and women, including wheelchair users.
A man presenting an audio Bible to two young Rwandan children who may be blind. Their mothers stand behind them,
Two groups of about six East African people in each, sat in circles on plastic chairs in a hall.
A large group of East African people sat in rows of plastic chairs, listening to two speakers - a man and a woman.
A group of 8 East African people sat in a circle on plastic chairs, outdoors, under trees.
A skewed angle photo of 8 East African people sat in a circle on plastic chairs, outdoors, under trees.
A man standing up, presenting an audio Bible to a Rwandan man in a wheelchair.
A Rwandan man sat on a chair, presenting an audio Bible to another seated Rwandan man holding crutches.
Group portrait of about 40 people in Rwanda, both men, women and children, outside a church building.
A Rwandan man addressing a group of East African people sat in plastic chairs in rows, with an overhead projector screen behind him.

Pray for Disability Awareness Sunday

Close up of a person's hands, clasped together, resting on a book, next to a window.

Can you join us in prayer?

We invite you to join us to pray for disability inclusion and all the churches who registered to take part in Disability Awareness Sunday.

Many churches in the UK and around the world hold services and events to celebrate disabled people in church and Christian life: either on Disability Awareness Sunday itself, 27th September 2026, or on a different day.

We want to cover these churches and Disability Awareness events in prayer and we’d love you to join us. To find out more, and get details of how to sign up for a slot in the DAS prayer chain, complete the expression of interest form below:
(Note: your details will disappear when you click submit. You should then receive an email confirmation. Check your Junk mail folder.)

    The prayer continues, following on from a 24-hour prayer chain which took place in 2025 from 12 noon (UK time) on 27th Sept till 12 noon on 28th Sept '25. Our Together at Home group produced a main DAS Prayer Guide with ideas for prayer, as well as some shorter and longer prayer guidance (see below).

    Prayer is still much needed! Only God can transform our churches to be more fully inclusive of disabled people.

    How do I join in?

    For now, please complete the Expression of interest form above, so we can send you details of how to sign up for a slot.

    We asked people to sign up for a slot to pray, so that we could try to fill any gaps. Now, after the official Sunday, you can pray any time! But it's still really important.

    The original event was set up through the organisation '24/7 prayer', who run the Global Week of prayer each September. We just used the same sign up sheet to pray for Disability Awareness Sunday.

    Anyone can pray any time, anywhere!

    A screen shot of a webpage showing time slots for 24/7 prayer.

    Resources and prayer prompts

    We provided short prayer prompts (see bullet points below) as well as longer prayer resources:

    1. A main DAS Prayer Guide produced by our Together at Home fellowship group (find out more about Together at Home here)
    2. A longer prayer exercise in Lectio365-style, also produced by the Together at Home fellowship.

    Some short prompts are in the bullet points below. The prompts and resources should have been sent by email to everyone who signed up to pray. But you can access them at the links above.

    You do not have to use the prompts or resources – they are just a guide.

    • Pray for churches/people taking part in Disability Awareness Sunday, that God will bless and encourage them to celebrate and fully include disabled people.
    • Pray for the Biblical message to be shared that God's people, the Church, are ‘One Body, Many Parts’ (1 Corinthians 12), which is the theme for Disability Awareness Sunday 2026.
    • Pray for Christians to reach out and include disabled people on Disability Awareness Sunday, and to actively work towards disability inclusion as an essential ministry.

    ***************************************************************************

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

     

    What is Disability Awareness Sunday?

    Disability Awareness Sunday is a day to celebrate and ensure disabled people are fully included in church and Christian life. This year it is on Sunday 27th September 2026.

    Every year, our charity Through the Roof suggests a theme for Disability Awareness Sunday and produces a free resource for churches and ministries. You can access this year’s free resource at: https://throughtheroof.org/forchurches/disability-awareness-sunday/

    Why pray for Disability Awareness Sunday?

    Disability inclusion is not an ‘add-on’ to the Gospel, it IS part of the Gospel.

    Jesus called disabled people and asks others to do the same in Luke 14’s parable of the Great Banquet, where the Bible says:
    “Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the town. Bring in those who are poor. Also bring those who can’t see or walk.” (NIrV)

    All people, including disabled people, are made in God’s image, and are part of God’s plan. A church without disabled people is an incomplete church. So praying for Disability Awareness Sunday is a first step to more and more churches fully including disabled people.

    What are we praying for?

    For churches and communities who take part in Disability Awareness Sunday: a day to celebrate and ensure disabled people are fully included in church and Christian life. This year it is officially on Sunday 27th September 2026, but any (Sun)day can be Disability Awareness Sunday!

    • We pray for churches and people taking part in Disability Awareness Sunday, that God will bless and encourage congregations to celebrate and fully include disabled people.
    • We also pray for the Biblical message to be shared that all people are needed in the body of Christ: the Church. Disability Awareness Sunday's 2026 theme is 'One Body, Many Parts'.
    • The most important thing about Disability Awareness Sunday is that Christians reach out and include disabled people. And that churches continue to actively work towards disability inclusion – e.g. by nominating a Roofbreaker or disability champion in their church.

    There are longer prayer resources at the links below with more ideas and prompts on how you could spend your DAS prayer time:

    1. A main DAS Prayer Guide produced by our Together at Home fellowship group
    2. A longer prayer exercise in Lectio365-style, also produced by the Together at Home fellowship.

    You do not have to use the prompts or resources – they are just a guide.

    When are we praying?

    This year, the plan is to invite people to pray over DAS weekend. The times are TBC but potentially from midnight on 26th September 2026 until the evening of Sunday 27th September, which is Disability Awareness Sunday. This is so that we are praying before, during and after many Disability Awareness Sunday services and events. But you can pray any time!

    Do I have to pray for a whole hour?

    No, even on the prayer signup sheet, you could sign up for the same one-hour slot as someone else, if you agree to do 30 mins each.

    We just encouraged people to choose a slot not yet filled, so we cover the whole period, if possible. And it is fine to sign up for more than one slot, if you can!

    The hope was to have every slot filled, so we cover the event in prayer for the whole weekend!

    How do I scroll up and down in the prayer signup sheet?

    The DAS prayer sign up sheet for 2026 is not yet ready, but if we use the same 24/7 prayer sign up sheet, here are the instructions:

    You use your mouse (or swipe with your finger) to scroll down the prayer sign up sheet. There is no scroll bar at the side, but you can move down the sheet by clicking and dragging with your mouse (or with your finger on a phone/tablet).

    How do I select a time slot?

    Just click the box between the times you want to pray – by using your mouse or tapping with your finger on a phone/tablet.

    Do I have to put my name publicly on the list?

    No, you can sign up anonymously. Just click ‘Book anonymously’ in the box when you register.

    You will be asked to give an email address so we can send you information, but that is kept private and won’t be shared by the organisers. You do not have to create an account, as you can ‘Book as guest’.

    A pop-up box on a webpage to sign up for a prayer slot, askign for name, email, and if you want to book as a guest.

    Is there a virtual prayer room on Zoom/video chat?

    No, we have decided to invite people to pray independently, without the need to login to a video chat or Zoom room. However, individuals are welcome to set up their own virtual or in-person prayer rooms, if they want to pray together.

    I have a different question about the DAS day of prayer – who do I ask?

    The easiest way to ask a question is to email annette@throughtheroof.org

    What is the Together at Home fellowship group, and can I join?

    We would love new members of our online Together at Home Fellowship group, which is a virtual home group for Christians who meet on Thursday afternoons every week, 2-3pm UK time, to share community and pray or read the Bible together. Many of the group have lived experience of disability, but it is open to all.

    Please visit our Together and Home webpage for more details and email together@throughtheroof.org to request the Zoom link for future meetings. 

    How do I find out more about Through the Roof and church disability inclusion?

    Please do fill in this short form to Get Updates from us at Through the Roof, the Christian disability inclusion charity.

    Let us know on the form if you'd like information from Through the Roof about:

    News release: Three generations go to Uganda

    A little Ugandan child looking at a picture book while lying in a Ugandan woman's arms. The book is being shown by a UK volunteer and a Ugandan volunteer.

    Carol Dyer from Gosport is preparing for an extraordinary journey this September, travelling with her 18-year-old son Caleb and her 81-year-old father Neil Salter to Jinja, Uganda, with us as Christian disability charity Through the Roof. They are going on a mission for our Wheels for the World project which provides life-changing wheelchairs to disabled people who otherwise have no access to them – restoring dignity, independence, and hope.

    Different roles on the mission

    The family of volunteers will be working alongside a team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, mechanics, pastoral carers, and administrators later this September. Together, they will select and fit refurbished wheelchairs for children and adults in desperate need.

    Three generations go to Uganda this year, all from one family. It is Caleb’s first trip, taking the role of blogger and photographer; where for grandfather Neil, it’s one of seven trips he’s made with charity Through the Roof, as a volunteer mechanic. Mum/daughter Carol, who is on the staff team of the charity, is the Team Leader for this trip. She is excited to return to Africa on the pastoral team for her fifth mission, Carol shares:

    “I get the best job, chatting to the disabled people given wheelchairs and telling them they are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made by God’ (Psalm 139). Often they do not know that. They are normally left at home, not going out to work or school. They arrive crawling or carried; a wheelchair brings them freedom.”

    Why take wheelchairs to Uganda?

    Globally, over 100 million people need a wheelchair but do not have one – with over 90% living in Africa or Asia. In contrast, thousands of wheelchairs in the UK end up in landfill each year. Through the Roof refurbishes these chairs and ships them to countries where they can make an immediate, life-changing difference.
    A man with white hair and a white cap showing a red and yellow puppet to a smiling Ugandan child in a wheelchair.
    For many in Uganda, the cost of a wheelchair is far beyond reach. Without one, people may be forced to crawl on the ground or be carried everywhere. The gift of a wheelchair opens doors – to education, employment, and full inclusion in community life.

    Hear how lives are being transformed

    On the last Wheels for the World trip to Jinja, the team met Winnie, a teenager with cerebral palsy who had never moved independently. Her new, customised wheelchair gave her posture support, comfort, and – for the first time – freedom to explore on her own. As she tried her chair for the first time, the crowd erupted into applause and she beamed with joy. Alongside the chair, she was given a Bible in her own language and prayed for, as the team encouraged her to know her value and God’s love.

    Tim Wood, CEO of Through the Roof, said: “Our Wheels for the World project transforms the lives, physically and spiritually, of 800 disabled people every year. We’ve got a great community here, and we’d love for more people to join us in transforming lives.”

    A young man with a blue crash helmet in front of a tree, smiling and holding his hands in a double 'thumbs up'.

    Through the Roof invites supporters to help by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Watch our project video at https://youtu.be/7kQSS2v5GxA, see mission updates on social media @TTRChangesLives, or visit our Wheels for the World webpage at https://throughtheroof.org/international-mission/wheels-for-the-world/

     

    Online talk: Coming alongside people with dementia

    A close up of an elderly person's lap with their hand being held by another younger person's hand.

    We were so blessed by the online talk: Coming alongside people with dementia, by 'Embracing Age', about making your church a great place to grow old. 

    Paul Crowther, Development Manager from UK charity 'Embracing Age' shared practical tips and insights about support for people with dementia, a condition that affects so many. 

    A pie chart showing one half orange and one half red. Text reads 'On in teo of us will be affected by dementia in our lifetime. Either by caring for someone with the condition, developing it ourselves, or both. Alzheimer's Research UK FOR A CURE'

    Alzheimer's Research UK predict that 1 in every 2 people in the UK will be affected by dementia, either as a carer or by having the condition. So it's so important that churches can offer support.

    People with dementia experience a range of difficulties including problems with memory, reasoning and language, and changes in their behaviour and emotions. Every individual will be affected differently, and these difficulties will get worse over time.

    It is important to remember that people with dementia still have spiritual needs and still need to know that they are accepted and loved. A relationship with God can continue even when rational thought and verbal communication are difficult.

    Join with Roofbreaker disability champions in your area and to learn more!

    Faith Mendy – International Missions Manager

    Faith Mendy

    Faith Mendy is our International Missions Manager, responsible for managing all our international activities, networks and distributions. As a Reverend minister, a gospel artist and a mother of two young women, Faith has been involved in ministry, church planting, training and lecturing churches for 25 years with more of a focus onto mission work in the last 10 years.

    Faith is French born, living in London, from African background. She has the privilege of speaking 5 languages: a tool God has used to break many barriers to cultures, race but also evangelism. Faith came to disability inclusion through personal experience because her mother is now using a wheelchair. Her love for the Gospel of Christ and helping the less privileged is a passion God has placed on her heart, to which she dedicates her life.

    Summer 2025 Vital Link Newsletter: Love That Moves

    Cover-screenshot_VL_summer25

    Welcome to the Summer 2025 Vital Link newsletter from Through the Roof.

    Our series continues, exploring the Disability Awareness Sunday theme, 'Made in God's Image'. 

    As the Sun shines (sometimes!) this UK summer, we focus on the second keyword in our 2025 theme: 'God' who is the Source of all life.

    • See God's image in action in news from the latest Wheels for the World mission in India 
    • Hear a new reflection on God's character from author Emily Owen: 'Love is His Name'
    • A reminder to show God's love and join in with Disability Awareness Sunday, 28th Sept. 2025
    • Ponder the meaning of 'Made in the image of God?' with Revd Ian Lasch, an autistic priest
    • Hear from Gillian, a Roofbreaker from Essex who is finding her voice
    • Meet Oscar, 19, who can now access Bible stories by himself with BSL
    • Read the results of our Future of Through the Roof survey
    • And a huge 'Thank you!' to Shaun, our former International Missions Manager!

    Download your PDF copy in this more-accessible format with alt text and reading order.

    Alternative formats

    Vital Link is available in many different, accessible formats:

    • large print, Word file, braille, audio link, CD.

    Contact us on 01372 749955 or email info@throughtheroof.org to request one of the above accessible formats.

    In-person retreat: Finding Hope Through Disappointment

    High Leigh Conference Centre by John H Darch, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

    We had a fantastic in-person retreat ‘Finding Hope Through Disappointment’, 10th – 12th September 2025 at High Leigh Conference Centre,  Hertfordshire, UK.

    The retreat took place in the beautiful grounds at High Leigh, described as a: 'historic Christian venue with tranquil surroundings: 40 acres of lawns, parkland and woodland' with en-suite bedrooms and spacious meeting halls and rooms.

    Our speakers were Neil and Sonya Chitty (our CEO Tim’s pastor and his wife). You can watch and hear a lively and engaging talk from them on Disability and the Church on YouTube. 
    A man and a woman at a podium, speaking. The man is seated and the woman is standing. There is a guitar in the background.
    The programme included worship; teaching sessions; arts and craft materials for personal response; fellowship with others; quiet time and space in beautiful surroundings; opportunities for prayer; and communion together.

    It was a powerful and uplifting experience, where everyone was able to share in their own way - whether in words, in art or creativity, or in quiet presence. The message rang through every session that God brings hope in every situation and season - however dark it may seem.

    We were blessed by hearing Neil and Sonya's own stories of how God helped them overcome feelings of bitter disappointment. Neil shared of his diagnosis of Bethlem Myopathy, a form of Muscular Dystrophy, which took many years for doctors to pinpoint. He had to recognise that he would never be able to run or play football like his friends, and face the stigma and social difficulties that, sadly, often accompany being a wheelchair user - including the challenge of finding a girlfriend, who would become the wife God wanted for him. Enter Sonya! God can overcome all barriers, so - despite many more disappointments along the way - the family have continued to use their gifts to bless the church and community. Their daughter led an amazing evening of worship on the last night of our retreat!      
    We all came away from the retreat with peace and serenity, knowing that God is with us in all things and will carry us through the storms of life. We look forward to future retreats and hope you can join us. All retreats will be advertised on our retreats page and you can email together@throughtheroof.org to contact the organisers of our Together Fellowship programme.

    Wheels of Grace: Mission to India 2025

    Untitled design - 1

    A mission to India with Wheels for the World – a ministry of Through the Roof  – has transformed lives with the gifts of mobility and the Word of God.

    In March 2025, UK volunteers alongside local partners, pastors and charities worked together to distribute refurbished wheelchairs and mobility aids to people in need.

    Mission Snapshots

    • 🧡 Sundasi Devi (the lady in orange), previously crawling, now wheels herself with pride.
    • 😇 Gourab, an 11-year-old boy with a severe disability, beaming a smile in his customised chair.
    • 👣 The boat trip to South Khulna island to share Jesus' love – one mobility aid at a time.

    A Message from the Team

    As we reflect on our 10-day mission to India, our hearts are full of gratitude. God worked through every team member, every wheelchair fitted, every prayer shared. Over 100 individuals received mobility aids, and with them, new dignity, hope, and freedom—both physically and spiritually.

    Thank you for your prayers, your giving, and your encouragement. You were part of this work, and we rejoice in the Lord together with you.
    A large group of people in a park in India, outside a block of buildings. There are rows of chairs with people sat, standing, or walking around - men and weomen, old and young, including a man and woman from the UK in grey T shirts.

    “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24

    Mission Highlights

    In every location, along with physical mobility came spiritual encouragement. Bibles were shared. Prayers were spoken. A church service brought joy and unity. Faith inspired local hearts.

    Days 1 & 2: Preparation & AnticipationA group photo of 4 UK volunteers in India – one man and three women – stood in front of rows of wheelchairs, lined up for distribution.

    Volunteers and local teams travelled to Kolkata, then gathered to sort and match wheelchairs, footplates, crutches, and walking aids. Spirits were high, and prayers were shared as the team prepared for their first day of distribution.

    😄 Day 3: Joy Restored

    The wheelchair recipients have been full of joy to be gifted wheelchairs and walking aids from Wheels for The World! A dear lady in orange clothing, living in a local charity shelter, who was crawling on her hands, received a wheelchair. Her smile told the story of God’s love in motion.

    Day 4: A Day of Rest

    On Sunday, our team enjoyed a day off, starting with a church service. Dr. CV, our local partner, shared his inspiring testimony. After lunch, we visited Mother Teresa's House. The day ended with a joyous celebration of Pastor Asis' birthday.

    🌟 Day 5: Nakash’s Transformation

    28-year-old Nakash, living with polio, arrived with his family, unable to walk. He was lifted into a new chapter of life with a fitted wheelchair. His radiant smile moved the team deeply. Praise the Lord for this joy and transformation!

    A young man age 28 in navy blue shorts and T shirt, being lowered into a wicker chair by two volunteers.A young man age 28 in navy blue shorts and T shirt, sat in a wheelchair, smiling broadly!

    Reaching the Islands

    Later in the week, the mission extended to South Khulna Island and Jamamtara.
    Boat moored by quay, with people walking down to get on to it. An Indian flag is flying on the boat.
    It took 2 hours each way to reach South Khulna by car and boat!
    Wheelchairs, walking sticks, and crutches were distributed to people with cerebral palsy, amputations, and more. Marie, one of the four UK volunteers, shares her memories:

    “The team had transport to South Khulna Island. This region is famous for Bengal Tigers. We did not see any though. As we arrived, we were happily greeted by the people waiting for equipment. At the start, we triaged all who those who had registered. We saw people with various physical disabilities, such as amputees, some children with cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities. People with polio, spinal injuries, and injuries from falls. 15 people were successfully given wheelchairs.A smiling elderly Indian man, sat in a wheelchair, being pushed by another man, as a further volunteer checks he is comfortable.

    We were delighted to see a couple of other disabled people who were not initially registered and saw an 11 year old boy who received a self-propelled child's wheelchair. The boy had been patiently waiting until the end and was very happy. We gave out three lots of crutches and walking sticks. The day was filled with much excitement, noise, help from local pastors, great teamwork, kindness, care, and happiness.”

    In Jamamtara, we were welcomed with songs by children from the Brethren Bible College. Some children with complex needs were measured for chairs we’d send on later. Marie recalls:

    “The team & local pastors travelled to a village called Jamamtara. This is a very dry area as water resources are low. The round trip was 12 hours. We had a small selection of wheelchairs and walking aids. We met at the Brethren Bible College and school. We had a great welcome from the local school children and staff team. The children sang two beautiful songs. On the trip, we learned that "thank you" in Bengali is ‘Dhanyawad.’"

    ❤️ Final Day: A Mother's Joyful Tears, A Boy’s Smile

    On Day 10, Gourab, an 11-year-old boy with a severe disability, was fitted with a specialised wheelchair. His mother’s eyes welled with relief as she saw her son seated safely and comfortably. It was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. Marie shares:

    "We are so grateful for the strength, energy, and love that flowed through each person involved, from our team to the caregivers and the local partners.

    Gourab and his mum had returned after an initial visit earlier in the week. With a few adjustments for the chair, he was seated well. His head being supported was the main concern. Gourab found waiting hard, but he left the centre a happy boy and in his new wheelchair!
    A smiling Indian mother in a purple and white sari carries her 11 year old son to a wheelchair. He is wearing a red T shirt and blue shorts.
    We rejoice in the Lord’s grace and praise Him for all the lives touched by this mission."

     

    🙏 Thank you for your support

    All the support received means:
    ✔ 100+ mobility aids distributed
    ✔ Dozens of Bibles shared
    ✔ Countless lives touched by the love of Christ.

    We couldn't do this without you. Together, we bring freedom in motion—both physical and spiritual.

    "Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” – Isaiah 64:8

    From blessing to curse: disability inclusion in Nigeria

    NIgeria-2025_RB-event_Blog1_IMG-20250221-WA0072

    Hear how God is transforming lives through disability inclusion in Nigeria's capital, in the city of Lagos.

    Breaking down barriers

    Sadly, many churches still hold harmful beliefs about disability. Some see it as a curse or punishment. But Greg’s story from our recent mission to Lagos, Nigeria, shows how lives – and mindsets – can be transformed.

    Greg contracted polio, aged 5, and now uses a wheelchair. His father believed Greg’s disability was an attack from the enemy. So he started taking Greg to churches; Greg still has physical scars from them ‘removing the demons’ so that he would walk. At church, children couldn’t play with him. He was isolated because every parent said, ‘I don’t want my child to be like Greg.’ This mentally affected Greg so much that he tried to end his life.

    This time, there is a happy ending (read on below). But Greg’s childhood experience is sadly very common – often caused by wrong beliefs, that disability has to be a curse or punishment. Jesus challenged these misconceptions. When asked why a man was born blind, He replied:
    “It isn’t because this man sinned… He was born blind so that God’s power could be shown.” (John 9:3, NIrV)

    The greatest barriers are often invisible – formed by attitudes, not architecture.

    A mission of transformation

    Changing lives starts with changing attitudes. Through the Roof leads Roofbreaker events to help churches understand the physical, cultural, and spiritual barriers disabled people face – and how to break them down.

    Inspired by the biblical account where friends lowered a paralysed man through a roof to reach Jesus, Roofbreakers are disability champions – individuals or teams in churches who help make inclusion a reality. These International Roofbreaker events often follow Wheels for the World missions, organised by Through the Roof to distribute wheelchairs and Bibles.

    In 2025, a UK team including Janet Eardley and Anne Nicholls joined local partners to run a Roofbreaker event in Lagos. 140 people attended – and Greg shared his story publicly.
    A Nigerian man sat in a wheelchair, holding a microphone, wearing a colourful shirt
    Greg shared that, despite all his negative experiences of churches seeing him as cursed, he was still seeking God.

    Through all these challenges, Greg went to university, and tried a nearby church. But to get Greg in his wheelchair into the church they had to lift him, and he was uncomfortable at the attention it brought. So, instead, he went to a very small church. After Greg visited this church once, by the very next Sunday they’d opened a new door and fitted a ramp. From that day, he started attending that church.

    After one month, two other people in wheelchairs started coming – word had spread of an accessible church! Then the church welfare people realised it was costing Greg a lot of money to get there. They said “You can’t afford this. We will be taking care of your transport.”

    As Greg says, “These are the little, little things that we can do and then we will draw people with disabilities, and they will come and worship.”

     

    Why disability inclusion matters

    Roofbreaker events are grounded in the Gospel truth: every person is made in God’s image and deeply valued. A Nigerian boy and his Mum sat in their kitchen. The boy is aged about 10 and is sat in a wheelchair, smiling broadly.Disabled people are often excluded or seen as less able to contribute – but Jesus showed us otherwise.

    In the ‘Roofbreaker’ account from Luke 5 / Mark 2:

    • the friends showed faith and took action
    • Jesus welcomed the disabled man as a friend
    • He addressed the man’s spiritual needs first
    • his healing revealed Jesus’ divine authority
    • people's hearts and minds were changed
    • God was glorified.

    Disability inclusion isn’t a side issue. It is the Gospel – good news for all, including those living with disabilities. Greg’s life is a testimony to that truth.

    On the ground in Lagos

    Anne, one of our Roofbreaker volunteers, reports:

    “We met Greg and Yemisi, both polio survivors, who shared their personal journeys. We witnessed people receive audio Bibles in their local languages – they were overjoyed! Church leaders responded positively, committing to practical changes like installing ramps. Many hearts were changed as they now regard disabled people as 'made in the image of God', 'adopted in his family'.”

    Seeds of change

    The mission sparked a lasting impact. A Nigerian man in an orange collarless shirt, holding a pair of glasses and a booklet called 'Be a Roofbreaker'Rev. Moses, a local minister, is now a passionate advocate for disability inclusion in Nigeria, and said of the event:

    “It’s been an eye opening and wonderful programme, it’s been enlightening, educative and inspiring. As a matter of fact, it’s been transformational.”

    We believe this is just the beginning. Seeds of inclusion have been planted and will continue to grow in Lagos and beyond.

    A Journey of Inclusion: Access, Belonging, Commission

    Roofbreaker events help churches and communities embrace what we call the ABC journey of inclusion:

    • Access: Greg’s new church made it physically possible for him to attend by adding a ramp and opening a new door.
    • Belonging: The church welcomed and valued Greg, taking care of his transport arrangements.
    • Commission: Greg now shares his story to inspire others and to welcome more disabled people into the Church.

    This journey reflects the Great Commission – equipping all believers, including disabled people, to share God’s love.

    Join us in making a difference

    You can be part of this life-changing work. Whether through volunteering, giving, or praying, your support helps empower disabled people in low-income countries and change perceptions worldwide. Visit our International Roofbreaker page to find out more.

    Together, we’re transforming lives – one story at a time.

     

    News release: Disability Awareness Sunday 2025

    A still from a video - a close up of a woman with short brown hair and glasses, wearing a blue scarf, sat in front of a mantel piece.

    [News bulletin also available in Welsh]

    “My hearing had gone… God’s image was still in me…”

    Emily Owen, an award-winning Christian author, lost her hearing overnight at age 21 and now lives with multiple disabilities. Ahead of Deaf Awareness Week: 5-11 May 2025, Emily shares that: “My hearing had gone… my legs wouldn’t move: God’s image was still in me.” Her inspiring story is shared in a new free resource for Disability Awareness Sunday 2025 (suggested date 28 September) from charity Through the Roof. It brings a simple but profound reminder: God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16).

    No matter what we face in life one truth remains: we are all ‘wonderfully made’ in the image of God. That’s the heart of the powerful new video in which Emily shows that God has used her experiences and brought her ‘beyond silence’ (the Deaf Awareness Week 2025 theme).

    Emily’s video is available now as part of a new church service resource by Emily, prepared for Disability Awareness Sunday 2025 on 28 September. But it can be used at any time, as ‘any Sunday can be Disability Awareness Sunday!’ At disability charity Through the Roof, we encourages all churches to celebrate and involve disabled people in your community.

    A free resource for churches

    All churches are invited to download the free ‘Made in God’s Image’ resource, including:

    • Emily’s video testimony
    • Suggested prayers and songs
    • Sermon ideas on exploring God’s image in every person, linked to 1 Samuel 16
    • Free handouts about being ‘Made in God’s image’ to encourage disability inclusion.

    An advertising postcard for Through the Roof's Disability Awareness Sunday: on a yellow and purple background, as a close up of a woman with short brown hair and glasses, wearing a green shirt and a colourful scarf, sat in an armchair, holding a mug. A text box reads: '"When my legs wouldn't move, God's image was still in me." Emily Owen, Author'. Below that, a footer reads: 'www.throughtheroof.org 01372 749955 @TTRChangeLives '
    The resources are designed to help churches reflect, celebrate, and welcome all – because everyone belongs in the Body of Christ.

    Why it matters

    Too often, our culture – and sadly sometimes our churches – measure people against worldly ideas of “perfection”. This can lead to unspoken barriers, from physical access to attitudes of discomfort or exclusion. The statistics speak for themselves:

    • 72% of disabled people report negative attitudes in daily life
    • 67% of people feel awkward speaking to a disabled person. (Scope)

    These barriers matter. They prevent people from using their God-given gifts and leave parts of the Body unrecognised and unreleased.

    Jesus called us to welcome everyone. When churches fully embrace disabled people, we don’t just include them – we are transformed by their presence, perspective, and ministry.

    What is Disability Awareness Sunday?

    Disability Awareness Sunday 2025 is a chance for churches across the UK to begin or deepen conversations about inclusion of deaf and disabled people. It’s not about fixing things – it’s about opening hearts, listening, and taking the next step together.

    Through the Roof encourages every church to appoint a Roofbreaker – a local disability champion who helps guide the church on a journey of Access, Belonging, and Commission.

    What others are saying

    Revd Helen Cameron, President of the Methodist Conference 2024–25, says in her videos for Disability Awareness Sunday:
    “If joining in worship becomes hard because disciples are deaf or blind and no-one makes it accessible, then the story of love and grace is diminished – not by God, but by us.”

    Emily Owen, writer of the new resource, says in the latest Methodist Connexion magazine:
    “Disability Awareness Sunday is for you… A chance to come together, celebrating each other. Let’s not focus on complicated obstacles, but on simple essentials.”

    Join the movement!

    Let’s make Disability Awareness Sunday 2025 a turning point for our churches. Celebrate it 28 September or on a Sunday of your choice.

    Download the free resources, show Emily’s video, involve disabled people, and take a step toward a church where everyone feels they truly belong.

    📥 Get a copy the free resources (in English or Welsh) at:
    throughtheroof.org/forchurches/disability-awareness-sunday

    🙏 Share your heart for inclusion. Let’s transform lives together.