Dear Members and Friends of the Southwest Conference:

I bring you greetings in the name of our Still Speaking God. My name is Michael Curry and I am thrilled to serve the Southwest Conference as Lay Minister for Disability Education, Advocacy, and Awareness.

My time as a member in discernment in the Southwest Conference began on February 13, 2014 and came to a close on February 13, 2019. During my time in discernment, I had a difficult time deciphering how God envisioned using me and the gifts that I bring to our shared table where I always hoped to be a voice to those who have been silenced and marginalized by the stigma of mental health challenges. I spent a lot of time thinking and dreaming about the ideal ministry setting for me never once imagining that I would receive and accept a call to serve on the Southwest Conference staff as Lay Minister for Disability Education, Advocacy, and Awareness.

My educational journey began in May 2010 when I enrolled in the online program through Ohio Christian University. I completed my Associate of Arts degree in Christian Ministry in August 2012. I continued at Ohio Christian University graduating Summa Cum Laude with my Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Ministry in April 2015. Most recently I was trained and certified as a Recovery and Peer Support Specialist in the state of Arizona.

If your congregation would like to learn more and begin to explore what it means to widen your welcome for your members and friends who are differently-abled, I invite you to contact me at 623-570-5656 or swclayminister@gmail.com. A scope of work agreement is included here for use together as we plan the ways I can be most helpful to you and your church.

I look forward to our journey together as we strive how to widen our welcome for all of God’s differently-abled and beloved children.

Walking with you on the Journey,

Michael Curry

Southwest Conference

Lay Minister for Disability Education, Advocacy, and Awareness