Special Needs

HAND IN HAND MINISTRY

Where all children can come to know Jesus

God loves all of His children and the Hand in Hand Ministry intends to include those with special needs in every area of WardKids Ministry.

IN THE REGULAR CLASSROOM

We believe that each child must have an opportunity to draw closer to God by learning the truths revealed in his Word. We are one body, and none is greater or lesser than another. Our desire is that each child will be a successful participant in the classroom. Special Needs Buddies are caring, compassionate people who are paired up with a child with special needs to provide positive support in a classroom.

Hand in Hand
room

A self-contained classroom is available for children whose disabilities hinder them from being successful in the regular classroom. Loving volunteers provide a safe and welcoming environment while the children enjoy a time of worship that includes scripture reading, prayer requests and praises, a video Bible lesson, and hands-on activity.

for the
parents

Parent's Night Out – A night of respite for parents of our Hand in Hand children is offered one Friday night per quarter from 6 to 9 p.m. Our Hand in Hand children, along with their siblings, are entertained with games, crafts, snack and fun activities while parents get away for a well-deserved break.

For more information contact:
Bethany Crane | Special Needs Ministry Director
248.374.5972
bethany.crane@ward.church

POTTER'S WHEEL MINISTRY

Potter’s Wheel is a ministry that focuses on the spiritual, social and creative development of adults with special needs. Class meets weekly on Sundays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in Chapel Suite 3. The interactive style of the class encourages sharing of hopes, dreams and personal goals. Included during the morning class is Bible study, prayer, singing, beverages and socialization.

For more information contact:
Bethany Crane
Special Needs Ministry Director
248.374.5972
bethany.crane@ward.church

Young Life Capernaum

Young Life Capernaum Ministries is an outreach of Young Life with teens and young adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. The goal of YL Capernaum Ministries is to give kids with disabilities the same opportunity to hear the Gospel and experience the gift of life as able-bodied kids.

Do you know a teen or young adult with disabilities who would benefit from joining Capernaum?

Young Life Capernaum Club is open to all teens and young adults up to age 26 with disabilities, inside and outside of Ward. Capernaum Club gives them the chance to have fun, make friends, develop self-esteem and begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. Young Life staff and volunteers model Christ’s unconditional love and acceptance as they walk alongside these young adults — filling their lives with love and support.

Weekly Tuesday night gatherings include music, games, activities, crafts, snacks, and chats about Jesus. A sleep-away camp is offered for one week during our summer break. Contact us to receive a schedule of events and for more information.

Interested in being a Buddy or a Leader in Young Life Capernaum at Ward?

It’s easier than you think! You don’t need to be a “professional” to be a friend to high school students with disabilities. All you need is God’s calling on your heart, a willingness to learn and the ability to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. You will quickly find yourself falling in love with these young people as you persevere in learning to be a friend.

For more information about becoming involved with Young Life Capernaum at Ward please contact Bethany Crane at 248-374-5972 or bethany.crane@ward.church.