New Edition of Beyond Suffering: Transforming Disability Ministry Worldwide

AGOURA HILLS, California, September 23, 2025 – Over one billion people worldwide live with a disability, and that number is growing every day. Churches are on the front lines of ministering to those with disabling conditions, but many are unprepared for this challenge.  

To meet the global demand for thoughtful, effective ministry within the disability community, the international ministry Joni and Friends is releasing an updated version of the disability training course Beyond Suffering: A Christian View on Disability Ministry. 

An online course offered by Joni and Friends, Beyond Suffering is a 12-lesson course used in universities, seminaries, churches, and other venues around the world. Taught by certified instructors, this authoritative resource offers a biblical understanding of disability, chronic illness, and profound suffering, emphasizing the God-given dignity and inherent value of every human life. This course is appropriate for church staff, volunteers, and anyone with a professional or personal interest in the biblical theology of disability. 

Beyond Suffering changes perspectives, shifts attitudes, and challenges apathy, transforming both students and churches.  

“Beyond Suffering was a steppingstone into the real world of disability,” said Josie Lara, a physical therapy student at Hardin Simmons University. “Without it, I wouldn’t have understood how to see people with disabilities as the people they are, with feelings and abilities. It also reminded me that their families are just as deserving of my love and caring.“ 

“If you’re looking for a trusted leader in biblically-based disability ministry, Joni and Friends is the gold standard,” said evangelist Nick Vujicic, Founder of Life Without Limbs. “This new edition of Beyond Suffering is absolutely essential for Christians seeking hope, belonging, and purpose during seasons of difficulty—and for those coming alongside others coping with hardships.” 

Beyond Suffering is not limited to any particular church or denomination and may be offered in cooperation with various ministry organizations. This course can be taken for either academic credit or a certificate of completion.  

More than 25,000 people have taken this course. This updated edition reaches a global audience with fresh information and resources, including new supplemental articles and videos.  

Through this course, you will gain a deep understanding of the importance of disability ministry; learn to confidently interact with people living with disability; identify and respond to discriminatory barriers facing disabled people; develop and execute steps for creating a healthy disability ministry in your church; and practice advocacy skills and strategies that promote the full belonging of people living with disability in the church and society.   

“I’m so thrilled to introduce the second edition of Beyond Suffering: A Christian View on Disability Ministry. This powerful resource offers a biblical understanding of the most profound human pain and points to Jesus, who is The Way through and beyond all suffering,” said Joni Eareckson Tada, Founder and CEO of Joni and Friends. 

About Joni and Friends: For more than 40 years, Joni and Friends has provided the hope of the Gospel and practical care to people living with disability around the globe. Ministry programs include Joni’s House, Wheels for the World™, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training. Joni and Friends also delivers daily inspirational media through radio programs and podcasts.

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