On July 11, a wonderful outdoor fellowship for families with children with special needs took place at Gibson Ranch Park in Sacramento. More than 50 parents and children gathered for this joyful event, where they had the opportunity to reconnect with friends and share both their blessings and the challenges they face.
Together with a music group invited by Lydia and Gennady Vashchilin, everyone joined in praising the Lord through singing. Some of the children especially enjoy playing musical instruments—or, more accurately, pretending to play them. Our musicians always warmly welcome their participation and interaction, bringing great joy to the children. Outdoor games are an essential part of these gatherings, and, of course, each child receives a small gift as a token of encouragement and simply to make the day even more enjoyable.
These fellowship gatherings are equally meaningful for parents. They are like "a breath of fresh air" amid the continual demands of caring for their children. Many of the families have known one another for years, while others attended for the very first time. For those who are new, meeting other parents who share similar experiences, exchanging practical advice, and receiving helpful information become a tremendous source of encouragement and blessing.
Although the weather was quite hot that day, we gathered beneath the shade of large trees, where the warm atmosphere of worship, friendship, and fellowship kept everyone together for several enjoyable hours.
Families from various churches and denominations attend the gatherings organized by our Special Needs Children's Ministry, as well as families who do not currently attend any church. We also have a Viber group, where one of the mothers faithfully maintains a daily prayer journal. Each day she encourages the group to pray for one specific mother and shares a Scripture verse as the focus for prayer. The mothers are deeply grateful for this thoughtful ministry and are greatly encouraged through these daily prayers. This support is especially meaningful for mothers who are not connected with a local church.
In closing, I would like to ask everyone who reads this brief article to remember children with disabilities and their parents in your prayers. They deeply need our encouragement and support as they walk this unique and often difficult journey.
"His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence."
2 Peter 1:3 (ESV)
Natalya Smolikova
