ADNet has named Jason Greig, a Master of Divinity student at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, as a Student Associate for the 2011-12 academic year. This assignment will also fulfill the requirements for a ministry internship in Jason's academic studies.

Jason comes to ADNet with eleven years' experience living and working in L'Arche communities -- five years at L'Arche Daybreak in Richmond Hill, Ontario and six in L'Arche Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. These experiences "fundamentally transformed my consciousness in regards to people with developmental disabilities," he writes. "I moved from a place of fear to one of humble gratitude for the unique gifts that those whom society sees as the ultimate "other" can bring to society."

Jason would like to bring the perspectives of people with developmental disabilities into the realm of theological reflection. "People with disabilities have a valuable contribution to make to theology, yet remain mostly forgotten and silent," he asserts.  "Everyone is impoverished by this."

Jason's ministry internship will combine practical ministry with people who are the clients of MDC Goldenrod and theological reflection that will contribute to expanding ADNet's theological resources. ADNet's blog will provide a forum for his theological reflection.

Jason would welcome preaching invitations to churches in the Michiana area.

About his vocational goals, Jason writes, "I am still in discernment at this point, so the ultimate goal is uncertain." He is seriously considering doctoral work in theology and disability and thereby hopes to serve the church.  A return to a L'Arche community is also a possiblity. ADNet is grateful to receive his contributions during this year of internship.

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