The Journey Continues: 'Special Friends'
My journey this week takes me to visit a ministry for individuals with an intellectual disability, who typically, but not always, live in Mental Health group homes. Ministers Robert Rodriguez, Michael Johnson and Laura West believe it is God’s plan for these people to be part of Redwood Baptist Church. They are loved and accepted as they are.
I asked West, who teaches a Sunday school class named “Special Friends” to explain the name of her class.
“When we think of the word ‘special’ what comes to mind is something that is unusual, out of the ordinary, something striking or unique," West said. "These terms all apply to a large group of participants in our church. Since 2005, the Redwood church vans have traveled to group homes in San Marcos, Lockhart, Luling and Seguin to bring our friends to church for worship, and they enthusiastically come whenever they choose. During the 11 a.m. morning worship, we have a segment called ‘Journey Time’, led by Sister Wanda Pittman, which is an open mic for the congregation to share about their weekly walk with the Lord. During this time our ‘Special Friends’ come to the pulpit to inform folks about their needs and prayer requests. Like a cool drink of water on a hot Texas day, I am refreshed by the honest sharing these adults bring to our ‘Journey Time’ prior to the sermon," West said.
“When I was asked to start the ‘Special Friends’ adult class during the Sunday school hour, I chose to blend my love of drawing with scripture study. My intention was to make the lessons interactive through artwork, as well as bring the scripture to life through images. Since my Sunday school is taught in the sanctuary, not only my class members but early arrivals for worship, both children and adults, can listen in on my teaching and enjoy the artwork display I draw for the lesson. I pass out a coloring sheet of that week’s artwork for all to take home. My class is encouraged to hang the lesson sheet up in their rooms or pass it on to a friend or family member. As I prepare these lessons, my hope is that these scriptures and drawing studies will inspire the realization that Jesus is a special friend to all. The class shows the exuberance that makes teaching a blessing. Luke 18:17 (KJV) said we all need to receive “the Kingdom of God like a little child or we won’t be able to enter therein,” she said.
Redwood Baptist Church plans yearly retreats, and parties to minister to 25-30 special needs adults. Upon request, they also conduct funerals and baptisms. Volunteers involved who assist with this ministry declare they receive much more back than what they give. They are truly integrated in the church and are an inspiration to all.
“For you created my innermost being; you knit me
together in my mother’s
womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are
wonderful.”
Psalms 139:13-14
