Special Needs Ministry

Special needs families long for community and connection because it is rarely offered to us anywhere else. Would your church please pray about this widely unreached mission field? If your church will not reach out to a family like mine, who will?

– Nichole Huggins, Mom of a child with autism

The term “special needs” refers to a vast array of diagnoses and/or disabilities, seen and unseen. Children and families impacted by disabilities are less likely to attend church and church activities than those without disabilities. Christ’s love compels us to welcome everyone with love, compassion, awareness, and acceptance, and reaching out to these precious children and families is a part of holistic discipleship. Each person is known, valued, and loved by God and has good gifts to offer. How might God be calling you and your church to transform the lives of vulnerable children and families impacted by special needs?

HEPHZIBAH62:4 SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY PARTNERS

Jonathan’s Heart Ministries

Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, Canada

Realizing that God made us all beautiful and unique, Jonathan’s Heart Ministries creates a place where families impacted by special needs can come together and share life. Rev. Jennifer White founded the ministry after she and her husband became foster parents to three children with exceptionalities. Finding there were few opportunities to connect with similar families for connection and support, Jonathan’s Heart fills that gap with one to two monthly activities for the whole family. Activities range from free plays at the church to hayrides in the pumpkin patch. Through this journey, Rev. Jennifer has found that there is a large population of families impacted by special needs, who don’t attend church because they do not feel included or accepted. She is working to change that mindset and educate others about inclusion in the church, first by making Solid Rock a warm and inviting place where people with exceptionalities and disabilities feel welcomed.

• Church Webpage: Solid Rock Wesleyan Church
• Ministry Page: Jonathan’s Heart Facebook Page
• WesLife Article: Special Needs Ministry Launches in Newfoundland
• Contact: Rev. Jennifer White

FEATURED RESOURCES

Night to Shine

Tim Tebow Foundation, Jacksonville, FL

Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older. In February 2021 and 2022, thousands from around the world came together through socially-distanced and virtual formats to honor and serve those with disabilities. Though the festivities looked a little different due to COVID-19, nothing could keep Faith, Hope and Love from shining as bright as ever.

• Ministry Webpage and Blog: Night to Shine
• Video: Official 2021 Night to Shine Worldwide Highlight Video
• Contact: Tim Tebow Foundation