Nebraska Synod ELCA

A Three-Part Learning Journey for the Church

As people of faith, we are called to see God’s image in every person and to make sure no one is left behind — in worship, in service, or in times of need. Yet too often, people living with disability or experiencing the realities of aging encounter barriers: physical, social, and even spiritual.

This three-part class series invites lay and rostered leaders into deeper awareness, courageous conversation, and practical action. Together, we will:

• Explore how disability and ageism show up in our congregations and communities
• Reflect theologically on the truth that every person bears the image of God
• Learn practical ways to reduce barriers and widen welcome
• Consider how to be faithfully prepared to respond in times of crisis or heightened need

Scripture reminds us that every person bears the image of God. Our value does not diminish with age, illness, or limitation. We are all part of God’s beautiful creation, called to live and serve together in dignity and grace. The church is at its best when it reflects that truth — not only in belief, but in practice.

Each session will include thoughtful discussion, guided reflection, and clear next steps so that what we learn becomes what we live. Come ready to listen, share, and imagine how your congregation can more fully embody God’s inclusive love.

Facilitator

Deacon Dr. Cecelia Travick-Jackson
Assistant to the Bishop for Senior Adult Ministry

Deacon Dr. Cecelia Travick-Jackson is a retired professor from California Lutheran University and a lifelong church leader shaped by both Midwestern roots and global experience. Born in Illinois and raised in Indiana, she completed her undergraduate degree at Hampton University in Virginia, earned her master’s degree from the University of Hartford in Connecticut, and completed her Ph.D. at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.

Though she once assumed she would return to the Midwest, a call from California Lutheran University led her to make Southern California her home for more than 20 years. While living on Long Island, a simple invitation from a neighbor — the pastor of the local Lutheran congregation — brought her to a worship service where she immediately knew she was where God was calling her to be. Shortly after the formation of the ELCA, she became Lutheran and has remained deeply rooted in Lutheran life and ministry ever since.

Ordained as a Deacon, Minister of Word and Service, in 2021, Deacon Dr. Travick-Jackson now serves as the Assistant to the Bishop for Senior Adult Ministry. She brings rich experience in higher education, deep theological reflection, and a passionate commitment to honoring the sacred worth of older adults and persons living with disability in the life of the church.

Location, Dates, Times, Schedule, Costs

Who This Is For
Lay and rostered leaders who are passionate about inclusion in the church and want to strengthen their congregation’s welcome and care for people living with disability and those experiencing aging.

Format & Location

• Three-part online learning series (details/connection link provided upon registration)

Dates & Time

• Mondays for 3 weeks, beginning May 4, 2026
• 7:00–8:30 p.m. CST each week
• Total contact time: 4.5 hours (eligible for 4.5 Continuing Education hours)

Schedule

• Session 1 – Seeing Sacred Worth: Theology, Disability, and Aging
• Session 2 – Recognizing Barriers: Physical, Social, and Spiritual
• Session 3 – Practicing Inclusion: Next Steps for Congregational Life

(Each session includes teaching, discussion, reflection, and concrete take-home practices.)

Cost

• PMA student (for credit): $55
• Non–PMA student / general participant: $25

Continuing Education Hours

4.5 CE hours available for participants who complete the series.