Dear Friend in Ministry,

It has been a dynamic month for ministry and there is even more to come! See Calendar below.

We are excited to share with you some happenings that are:

• Showing God's glory
• Providing ministry workers with practical ideas and strategies
• Loving on parents with support, and empowerment

 

Under the Son Academy - This is us at a school orientation offering support to parents raising children who have challenges - learning, behavior, social, physical, syndromes, etc.

Awana Charlottesville - How delightful it was to spend the day presenting workshops and chatting one-on-one in Charlottesville, Virginia with people in ministry from 25 different churches.

 

Devotional for Dads - Dads who have children with challenges often struggle in silence. Dads deal with this challenge differently than Moms. I know how much the Word of God has guided me in my attempt to be a good husband to Julie and a Dad to my children. This book was written to bring glory to God by encouraging fathers who are raising a child with challenges.

Parent Support Group update: There were 16 parents and 9 children who came out for the last special needs support group. What a wonder it was to watch the children sweetly reaching out to new friends and the parents cut to the chase in bonding with each other. These parents have grit! They have experienced exhaustion, confusion, frustration, physical pain from panic meltdowns of their children, misunderstanding from grandparents and friends who readily give advice when they really don't know the total picture, rejection from schools and organizations who claim they are not "qualified" to work with their kids, and sheer agony in situations the faint of heart could never endure. And yet, they come not for a pity party. They come seeking solutions and encouragement from each other. They come hungry for nuggets shared from God's Word and experiences of other parents that may be helpful for their family. They come looking for hope. And...because of the encouragement and empowerment of the pastors in this church, the willing hearts of those caring for children who are typically developing and also children who have many different challenges  - we, Tom and Julie, can extend that hope to them. It was a beautiful thing we saw that night. Thank you for your prayers and your financial support so that we have the opportunity to love these families!

A book for those who minister - We are the body of Christ. We are made up of many parts. All the parts are intricately woven and essential for the Bride of Christ to bring glory to God. First we need to catch the vision Jesus intended. Then we need to put skin on it. In this book we share real life stories that weave together to create vibrant ministry. Grab the practical ideas and solutions to the challenges that surface in ministering to children who have challenges.

Special Needs Ministry Tips Corner:

Tip for Volunteers and Church Staff: Parents mostly need a listening ear. They want to feel that you have the same goal as they do - a place for their child to belong. Sometimes parents will seem antagonistic. Look beyond their tough exterior and see into their struggling and often hurting hearts.

Tip for Parents: Extend an attitude of gratitude to volunteers and staff who work with your children in ministry. Even if you don't agree with all of their decisions or methods, be thankful for their willing hearts. They could probably be doing a million other things with their time but they are choosing to care about your family.

Grace and Peace to you,

Tom, Julie, and Amy

Calendar

"God is FAITHFUL, who has called you

into f ellowship with his Son,

Jesus Christ our Lord."