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Joy Ministry logoJOY Ministry

First Presbyterian Church has begun an exciting new ministry, and you are invited to be a part of it!

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and related disabilities among children are increasing nationwide.

Children diagnosed with ASD look just like other children, with no outwardly visible physical characteristics of their being different; but, in often unique and individualized ways, they are. Their typical tendency to have poor social skills and to take literally what others say can lead to misunderstandings during everyday social interactions.

Within our own congregation, we have a growing number of these special needs children and their families worshiping with us. Their presence presents an inescapable challenge as to how we might best share with them the steadfast love of Jesus Christ.

First Presbyterian Church has responded to this challenge and established the “JOY Ministry”—Jesus’ Opportunity for You. JOY Ministry is a comprehensive program focused on the spiritual development and support of special needs children and their families.

Joy Ministry provides “shepherds” to attend to our JOY children during Sunday School. Each child is assigned a shepherd that is with them in the classroom every Sunday, assisting them on an “as needed” basis during the entire Sunday School year. Our goal is to establish a long-term relationship with each child and their parents.

The JOY Ministry needs your immediate help!

We have openings for up to 10 classroom shepherds during the children’s Sunday School hour. Men, in particular, are needed. With a full contingent of volunteers, an individual shepherd would rotate duties with other shepherds assigned to a particular child and typically serve only one or two hours per month. This truly is a life-changing opportunity to impact the lives of special needs children and their families. Anyone with a Christ-like heart and compassion toward children may serve. Training will be provided, and only a background check is required.

If you have a heart for working with these children or have a child you’d like to participate in the JOY Ministry, contact Kathy Timberlake This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   at 226-0216, ext. 221 or Ron Baker This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   at 494-0972 .