A Preliminary National Survey of Accessible Features of Churches in the United States

Abstract

Religious congregations have been inconsistent in their accessibility to and support of people with disabilities. Limited research has addressed the practices of churches in this area of inclusion. The purpose of this preliminary study was to better understand the landscape of congregational accessibility and explore the accessibility features presently offered in congregations. We randomly surveyed Christian churches in the United States. We analyzed responses from 127 churches using descriptive, correlational, and inferential statistics to determine which accessible features were reported more or less often and how congregational demographics mediated the number and type of accessibility features. Although most congregations offered multiple accessibility features, offerings varied widely. Streaming services, accessible seating, adequate lighting for people with low vision, and gluten-free eucharist elements were the features most commonly offered. Few congregations offered features that conveyed broader efforts to address accessibility. Most respondents indicated that multiple people with varied disabilities participated in their church, though frequency varied widely across types of disabilities. This study provides an initial glimpse into the accessibility practices of Christian churches in the United States. These findings highlight areas of potential reflection and response for churches aiming to support the full participation of people with disabilities.