Amy Kendall steps into the podcast with warmth, humor, and decades of lived experience in disability and mental health ministry. In this episode, she introduces herself, shares her journey through vocational ministry, and offers heartfelt wisdom for leaders and families in the disability community.
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Your Weakness is Your Witness with Amy Kendall
Introduction: A New Voice, A Familiar Passion
Amy Kendall steps into the podcast with warmth, humor, and decades of lived experience in disability and mental health ministry. In this episode, she introduces herself, shares her journey through vocational ministry, and offers heartfelt wisdom for leaders and families in the disability community.
Rooted in Purpose from the Start
A Childhood Immersed in Special Education
- Amy grew up watching her mom teach in special education.
- She spent summers engaging with kids with disabilities.
“God was prepping my heart at a young age.”
Shaped by Experience and Education
- Bachelor’s in ministry and Master’s in marriage and family counseling.
- Started in social work before returning to disability-focused work.
- Worked nearly a decade in early intervention with young children.
A Heart for the Hard Cases
Behavior Work as Ministry
- Amy loves the challenge of complex behaviors.
- Her time as a behaviorist deepened her compassion and insight.
Calling Confirmed Through Church Leadership
Stepping Into Church-Based Disability Ministry
Amy joined Saddleback Church and helped build its special needs ministry. She served for 18 years as a Disability and Mental Health Pastor.
“God changed my heart more and more for this population.”
Ministry Meets Motherhood: Amy’s Family Journey
Raising a Twice-Exceptional Son
Her son, Caden, has multiple diagnoses:
– ADHD
– Tourette’s Syndrome
– Sensory Processing Disorder
– Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
– Anxiety Disorder
– Gifted (IQ of 141)
Caden inspired and refined Amy’s approach to ministry.
When Your Weakness Is Your Witness
Family Motto: “Your weakness is your witness.” Caden’s story is one of strength, struggle, and divine purpose.
Different Isn’t Defective
Second Family Motto: “Different isn’t defective.” Amy affirms the value and dignity in every person’s God-given design.
A New Chapter in a New Church
From Saddleback to a New Calling
After being let go from Saddleback, Amy questioned her direction. Through divine timing and friendships, she joined a new church with a thriving special needs ministry. She now serves as Special Needs Director in a vibrant, inclusive setting.
Building Bridges of Support
Relationships That Sustain the Mission
Encourages ministry leaders to:
- Join roundtables and conferences.
- Connect with others doing similar work.
- Be open, vulnerable, and authentic.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Friendship
Amy mentions key friendships with leaders like Dr. Steve from Key Ministry. She urges listeners not to do ministry alone: “Iron sharpens iron.”
Encouragement for the Journey Ahead
Wisdom for Leaders and Parents
- You’re not called to walk this road alone.
- God is faithful—even through the hard and holy moments.
- Ministry and parenting in disability spaces is sacred, life-giving work.
Final Thoughts: Humor, Hope, and God’s Hand
Amy closes with laughter and authenticity, reminding listeners: “If God can use a talking donkey, He can use you and me.”
Call to Action:
🌟 Be Encouraged – You are not alone. Reach out and build your support network.
🧩 Reflect – What has God prepared you for through your life story?
💬 Connect – Visit https://www.keyministry.org/podcast to explore more episodes and resources.
