But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God”. -Luke 18:16
It was recognized several years ago that there were children with special needs in our congregation. At that time, the Barnabas Buddies concept was formed, with the idea of providing one-on-one care to children with disabilities and developmental delays. Caregivers--Barnabas Buddies--worked with special needs children on Sunday mornings in order to give their parents the opportunity to worship and participate in fellowship and Sunday School classes.
In the fall of 2000, a group of women, professionals with expertise and experience in working with children with developmental disabilities, got together to carry the concept even further. The team recruited others, particularly from the youth group, and the Developmental Ministries Team was on its way!
The ministry involves working on Sunday mornings with the children in our church family who have various kinds of developmental delays and disabilities. Through Developmental Ministries, the goal is that these children experience the church as a warm and loving place where all children receive loving care and Christian education at a level and in a format appropriate for each child. In doing so, it makes it possible for their families to participate in church activities, knowing that their children are safe and cared for.
Volunteers are the key to this ministry’s success. More than 20 adult and teen volunteers provide one-on-one care for at least 7 children, either in Room 109 or within a regular Sunday School classroom at all Sunday morning services. Volunteer opportunities are available at both services and scheduling is flexible.
Liz Hadar is the Coordinator of Developmental Ministries. 
