Story submitted by Liz Lucking, Disabilities Coordinator, Next Gen.
Last week, Ashlie & Mike Wolfe had reached out to Grace Kids in search of their new church home. In their initial email, Ashlie said that her and her husband have three children – and their middle child, Parker, has significant needs. The greatest gift is that when I spoke with Ashlie on the phone, I could confidently share about Grace Kids and our Buddy Ministry, and the incredible volunteers who would be equipped to care for Parker. As Ashlie relayed the complexities of Parker’s body, I took notes but assured her that it would be our greatest privilege to care for her kids. Ashlie shared that her deepest desire is for all three of her kids to worship and deepen their faith in the Lord, and to do so alongside their peers. After our conversation, she said she was feeling a new sense of peace.
Come Sunday morning, and we were able to greet the Wolfe family in the parking lot, and walk them back to Grace Kids. As we walked in, 2-year-old Kate, (who Ashlie & Mike were actually most worried about with the transition) kept saying “wow… wow… wow”, as she looked from left to right on her way in. When we dropped Kate off at class, there wasn’t a single tear! Colt, their 8-year-old, seamlessly entered the 2nd-grade room and joined in with a group game. And I typically don’t get to be a 1-on-1 in the morning, but the way that the morning landed, I was able to spend the morning as Parker’s buddy. I was with Parker as he entered the K room, and he was greeted at the door by each of his teachers.
Mr. Steve looked Parker in the eye, put a hand on his knee, and told him that he was so glad he was here. Ms. Jessica introduced Parker to every single child that came into the room, one by one sharing that he was our newest friend to join the class. Ms. Kristin engaged directly with Parker during small group, facilitating discussion about how deeply the Lord loves each of us. She encouraged dialog between the other child in the group and Parker. Each teacher continuously engaged Parker throughout the class – it was the most perfect image of true inclusion.
Parker’s classmates had lots of questions! Peers asked if Parker was sick or if he was asleep, and they asked why he didn’t talk. We explained that Parker uses wheels to move, sometimes the lights are too bright so he closes his eyes, and Parker knows exactly what’s going on around him. We said that he loves Jesus, music, friends, smiling, and Disney – and that sparked conversation. We all worshiped together, we were served pretend food from the grocery store, and we talked about how there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God. At the end of class, a classmate even called on Parker to lead Simon says. In the next couple of weeks, we are going to introduce his class to the book, “God Made Me Unique: Helping Children See Value in Every Person.” This is a phenomenal book from Joni Erickson Tada, which is lined with scripture and the truth of our identity in Christ. I am so grateful that Parker will be able to teach his peers about Jesus, and identity. I know He will change the hearts and minds of his peers, as he already has after one day.
After pick up, one of the teachers said: “Today was just beautiful. This might be out of ignorance, but does Parker know what’s going on around him?” (This is a valid question to ask!) And the answer is yes! Parker does know what’s going on around him, even if he may not express it the way we would expect. I was able to share that when I spoke with his mom Ashlie on the phone, during our initial conversation, she said that out of their whole family, they believe that Parker has the most intimate relationship with the Lord. Because, even though we don’t always know what Parker is thinking or communicating, the Lord knows… And Parker knows the Lord. (Yes, we were all a little teary.)
This Sunday morning was a perfect image of heaven on earth. A perfect image of integration and inclusion.
Whenever we have a new family visit, specifically within the Buddy Ministry, we try to send a couple of photos to the parents reassuring them that their child is being cared for and doing ok! Erin Insley, who helps coordinate buddies in the morning, was able to send a picture of each of their children. Ashlie said she was so overjoyed and brought to tears.
When I asked Ashlie how the service was, she just looked at me and said “Amazing. Oh, we will definitely be back.”
This is Grace Timonium. Each and every one of you played a role in ushering the Wolfe family into Grace for this beautiful opportunity of worship. From the website where they received contact information, to the greeters at the front door, to every single detail of the weekend service, etc.! I am so grateful for the many hands that help create this space for people to encounter the Lord.
I am beyond grateful for teachers and friends that see beyond the physical body. I am grateful that Parker, Kate, and Colt will each continue to deepen their relationship with the Lord, alongside their peers. I am grateful for our buddy volunteers who provide unconditional love and undivided attention to 1-on-1 support kids of all abilities. I am grateful that Parker will be able to teach his teachers and peers about the Image of God, inclusion, and compassion. I am grateful that hearts will be transformed through him, and ultimately through Him.
I feel so blessed to have witnessed this first hand and my heart is so full knowing that this whole family encountered Jesus in a very tangible, very real way.
Story submitted by Liz Lucking, Disabilities Coordinator, Next Gen. In Search of a New Church Home Last week, Ashlie & Mike Wolfe had reached out
The vision of Grace Fellowship Church is to inspire a Life Worth Pursuing in Baltimore and beyond. I recently sat down with Aly Huggins, the
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