Stay Sweet, Parakeet

A few weeks ago, I was blessed to hear the story of two of our congregation members, Kim and Luke. As they shared, I realized how much they cherish the good moments in life. They trust God in every circumstance and see so much laughter and fun in the world. I am so grateful to be a part of sharing this story.

Kim and her son, Luke, began attending our church after watching online. Their church had gone through a change after Covid, and she was searching for a church that could accommodate Luke’s health issues. It was a struggle, but they both held fast to their faith in God. When Kim found our church, she reached out to Amy Troyer, our Special Needs Director. They immediately formed a deep friendship, and this friendship allowed us to walk alongside Kim and Luke on their journey to feeling seen. God has blessed us so much to be able to provide for those who need extra care. From purchasing changing tables to aid those who need them, to dancing the night away at a prom especially designed for those with special needs. You make it all possible through giving, serving, and supporting our ministries. 

When Kim brought Luke, she witnessed the kindness and gentleness of the volunteers in that area. They were so excited to create an environment that Luke could be a part of. They asked Kim to train them on his communication device, as well as his health issues. Kim was still nervous about leaving Luke, but then God intervened with His grace and peace. He provided a volunteer who was a retired nurse, Nurse Nancy, and she was so excited to serve with Luke. This offered Kim a respite from worry and gave her the opportunity to pursue friendships, just like Luke. “God’s hands were in all of it,” Kim expressed. 

Since then, Luke has formed so many friendships, and his favorite part about Sunday is socializing! Luke uses an iPad to communicate, and his favorite phrases are “go to church” and funny goodbyes like “Stay sweet, parakeet!” He is also learning Italian from one of our sheriffs on Sunday mornings. It makes him feel so seen when our sheriff is teaching him. “Buonjiorno!” (Good morning). I also asked what Luke’s favorite event was that he has attended. He said church, obviously. But then Kim mentioned that Luke brought a friend to our Jesus Prom last year. They had so much fun!

I was so grateful to talk to Luke and Kim because they reminded me that sometimes I am so busy rushing through life that I forget to stop and listen to God. Kim told me she wanted to share their story so our church knows how much her family appreciates the staff and volunteers. Luke and others with disabilities feel seen and that they matter to us. She prayed for a church family for herself and Luke, and God blessed us with the most incredible staff, volunteers, and people to make Luke feel seen and loved. We are so thankful that we get to walk alongside these friends every day. It is a good reminder, too, that God provides in the mountains and in the valleys. God’s plan is so much better than we ever could imagine, and it is that much sweeter when we walk this path together.