Purpose
The purpose of this ministry is to reach out to children
with special needs and their families; assisting them to grow in thier
faith and actively participate as members of Pentecostal house of God
Church. Promote awareness and understanding concerning the special needs
population to the congregation.
Progress
Established a special needs Sunday School class for students with unique learning challenges.(Ages 5-16)
Special Needs Ministry introduction
- a presentation was given to help increase awareness and understanding about individuals with developmental disabilities to the congregation. An appeal was made church members who would like to serve as a volunteer within this ministry as a teacher, teacher's assistant, tutor, etc. A Special Needs Ministry survey was given to the congregation to help the church locate special needs children and their families and how can we better serve them.Volunteer Orientation/Training - To give an overview of the Special Needs Ministry program and the responsibilities that is expected from a volunteer. Training includes various special needs (disability) information, basic etiquette, teaching skills, and basic safety information. Classes could last 6 to 8 weeks. Instructor - Kathleen D. Morris, Parish Ministry Consultant, Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc. Assisting - Celena Barnes. The start date and time for orientation/training to be announce soon. CPR/First aid classes will be held at a later date.
If you have a heart to share the love of Jesus to children with special needs and are a Pentecostal house of God Church member, please contact Celena Barnes.
Developed a special education Christian curriculum.
Projection Goals:
* Continue to improve special needs Sunday School class.
* Continue creating special education Christian curriculum.
* Volunteers trained
* Some children with special needs are included in their age-appropiate mainstream classroom
with a tutor assistant during Sunday school/morning worship services.
* Friendship Program - Partnering non-disabled children with mild to moderate children with
special needs in the classroom under adult supervision.
* Parent Support Group: Allows parents of children with special needs to meet, discuss, and share
information with other parents who understands their daily challenges. Occasional guest speakers to
provide information relating to caring for a child with special needs: doctors, special education,
respite care, other non-disabled siblings, etc.
And the King shall answer and say unto them, "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:40)