Parents

Autism and Communion? Yes!

Autism and Communion? Yes!

Worshiping with Joel at age 11 was an interesting experience. It was not unlike sitting on the edge of your seat during an action movie, when you're not quite sure what's going to happen next—you only know something is going to happen. Then one day, during communion, a radiant look of understanding came upon Joel's face.

You Are Extraordinary

You Are Extraordinary

Every parent has a moment when they sit down face-to-face with their child to have an important conversation. The conversations may look a little different, but they have the same goal: to let children know that they are exceptional, unique and wonderful, and God has a plan and purpose for their lives.

Seeing Mother’s and Father’s Day Through the Eyes of Adoptive Families

Seeing Mother’s and Father’s Day Through the Eyes of Adoptive Families

Whether Mother’s and Father’s Days are acknowledged as part of your church’s worship service or not, we’re wise to recognize the state of mind and emotion present in adoptive and foster parents and their children on these days. It’s important to recognize and express sensitivity toward each member of these families.

Waving The Surrender Flag

Waving The Surrender Flag

As young parents on this special needs journey, we retired at the end of every day waving our white surrender flag! It wasn’t that we were quitting but we certainly knew we were done and had nothing left at the end of that day. This is where the church can be an invaluable source of help.

Tips for Communicating with Special-Needs Parents

Tips for Communicating with Special-Needs Parents

In order to communicate with care and compassion, ministry leaders need to understand the five phases of special-needs parenting. In the video below, I give an overview of the phases, share what families need from their church in each phase, and give communication tips that are effective no matter what phase parents are in.

Church, Help Us Make Decisions that Bring Life and Peace

Church, Help Us Make Decisions that Bring Life and Peace

We need friends and churches who will stand with us valuing the inherent worth, dignity and purpose of our loved ones with chronic health concerns, disabilities and aging-related conditions. But we hope to receive respect, grace and unwavering support when our conclusions are drawn.

A Guided Prayer for Adoptive and Foster Families at Easter

A Guided Prayer for Adoptive and Foster Families at Easter

As Easter nears, we humbly ask for Your tender care in the lives of each child and family. May our church services truly be a place of sanctuary for all families this Easter, as we gather to honor You, Lord.

An uncommon man with an extraordinary call

An uncommon man with an extraordinary call

Jeff was a true champion of fathers of kids with special needs. His ability to speak into the lives of men struggling with the feelings of hopelessness common to dads in families impacted by disability is irreplaceable. His words of wisdom will be a blessing to men who missed out on knowing him in this life.