Jesus Club Conference 2025 opened with anticipation — not simply because we were meeting again in person, but because this year’s theme, Church Together, captured the very heart of our ministry.

From the first moments, God’s vision was clear: adults with intellectual disabilities belong fully in His family — not on the margins, but right in the centre of Christian community.

A Welcome That Set the Tone

National Director Josh Reid began the day with a warm welcome to delegates from across NSW, interstate, Singapore, and even the island of Jersey.

His prayer reminded us of our mission:

“To help adults with intellectual disabilities know Jesus and live in friendship with God forever.”

This simple, biblical truth framed the day beautifully. One delegate later reflected:

“I loved the passion for constantly striving to make Jesus Club more accessible. You can really tell this ministry is led by prayer.”

Joel Moroney: The Church Is a Potato

Few will forget Joel’s now-famous illustration: a Mr Potato Head held high, followed by the bold declaration:

“God’s vision for the church is more Mr Potato Head than vegetable.”

With joy and theological clarity, Joel unpacked 1 Corinthians 12 — showing that every member, every gift, every person belongs.

He asked a deeply challenging question:

“If the local church is not accessible to all people… is it even church?”

Delegates were moved. One wrote:

“Joel’s talk was so encouraging — especially as a grandmother of an autistic girl.”

Leanna Fox: Communication Partner Training

Speech pathologist Leanna Fox delivered one of the most practical and empowering sessions of the day. Leaders loved her step-by-step guidance on making teaching accessible.

“Leanna’s explanations of how to keep teaching simple but still theologically correct were incredibly helpful.”

Leanna reminded us that communication is more than words.
It is eye contact, gestures, shared interest, and presence.

Her tools included:

• simplifying complex concepts
• using visual supports
• incorporating key word signing
• speaking with clarity and love

Her “cookies kid” illustration had the room laughing — but the message was profound: even simple words can hold deep meaning, and we must make those meanings accessible.

Rachel Chapman: Understanding Differences

Occupational therapist Rachel Chapman helped us see the world through the eyes of our members.

Using sensory tools, storytelling, and clear diagrams, she explained:

• sensory overload
• learning differences
• emotional regulation
• behavioural responses
• creating calm and predictable environments

One delegate captured the impact:

“The sensory session was full of things I’d never considered before.”

Rachel reminded us that accessibility is not just about teaching — it’s about hospitality, care, and love expressed through thoughtful environments.

Joel Moroney: Creating a Jesus Club Lesson

Joel returned with a hands-on workshop showing how to create simple, faithful, meaningful Bible lessons.

He walked leaders through:

• choosing one clear big idea
• using concrete, not abstract language
• keeping talks short
• reinforcing ideas through craft and songs

This session gave leaders confidence for the year ahead. A delegate shared:

“Joel’s teaching came across genuinely because of his personal experience.”

Donna Rhall & Michael Evans: Accommodation Options

Donna and Michael unpacked a complex but essential topic — accommodation and NDIS support.

Their session blended:

• practical wisdom
• emotional understanding
• grief and transition support
• respect for autonomy
• Christian compassion

They reminded us that Jesus Club is often the most stable Christian community in a member’s life as they navigate supported living.

Bec Baines: Sexuality & Identity

Bec courageously addressed one of the most sensitive areas in disability ministry.

She shared how real questions from members led to a collaboration with Youthworks, Patricia Weerakoon, and a Christian publisher — resulting in a new easy-to-read sexuality resource for adults with intellectual disabilities.

This gave leaders enormous confidence.
One wrote:

“There are things you don’t know you need to know — and you will learn those things too!”

Future Directions with Michael Evans

To close the day, Michael cast a hopeful and ambitious vision for the future of Jesus Club.

Key priorities included:

• growth of new clubs
• deeper club support
• new training modules
• expanding accessible curriculum
• strengthening prayer partnerships

Delegates left encouraged:

“Every year the conference inspires me to keep going for another year.”

Church Together — Not Just a Theme, but a Reality

Throughout the day, leaders reconnected over morning tea, swapped stories at small tables, enjoyed the colours artwork activity, and encouraged one another.

One delegate captured the joy perfectly:

“It’s not just great content — it’s meeting others and being encouraged that this is a wider ministry we all share.”

This is Jesus Club.
This is Church Together.

❤️ Partner With Us to Build Churches Where Everyone Belongs

As we move into a new year of ministry, we invite you to stand with us.

Your support helps us:

• start new Jesus Clubs
• train volunteer leaders
• create accessible Bible lessons
• support families
• run conferences like this one
• and welcome more adults with intellectual disabilities into the family of God

👉 Give a tax-deductible donation today
and help build churches where every person belongs.