Ryan Wendt is a Bi-Vocational Minister, Chaplain, a person in long-term recovery, and an avid philomath. He is pursuing a Master’s of Divinity at North Park Theological Seminary. Ryan’s passions are disability justice, mental health advocacy, breaking stereotypes around disability and mental health, and loving his neighbor.
With a background in recovery and street ministry, Ryan spearheads a small organization that is serving low-income residents in nursing care and rehabilitation facilities all across the inner city of Chicago. These individuals are physically and/or mentally disabled. Ryan and a few volunteers take the time to get to know the residents, teach Bible Studies, and lead worship at the nursing homes. Ryan also writes devotions that are handed out at the nursing homes.
Many residents and staff members of the homes have expressed gratitude for Ryan and his team’s continued presence at that home. The team has seen tremendous growth in some of the residents who have attended their Bible Studies. One person expressed interest in reading the Bible more and becoming a Christian. More than one person has been more positive overall after spending time with the volunteers.
For stories and reflections from his organization’s service to disabled individuals, please see the link below.
https://www.caringforthemargins.org/