Jonathan's Hope

Jonathan’s Hope is Northside’s special needs ministry, created to serve individuals with special needs and their families. Our name is inspired by 2 Samuel 9, in which King David protected Jonathan’s son, who was “crippled in both feet.” Our mission is to provide opportunities for fellowship and worship to individuals with special needs and their families. Jonathan’s Hope is made up of three ministry areas:
 
Jonathan’s Kids: This is a monthly night out for parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs. It meets in the gym from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. on the fourth Friday of each month, where volunteers play games with the kids (assemble puzzles, draw, shoot basketballs, etc.), serve pizza, and serve as mentors.
 
Jonathan’s Teen Club: This is a monthly social gathering for teenagers with Down’s Syndrome. It meets one Saturday per month from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. in the Summit. “Typical peer” teenagers hang out with the teenagers, and adult volunteers implement activities and donate snacks and supplies. Activities have included outings to Dairy Queen and an area retirement home to sing Christmas carols, holiday parties, and dancing to our favorite tunes!
 
Jonathan’s Buddies: This is a “Buddy Program” in which we place an adult volunteer with a child with special needs. Our buddies serve during the following times: (1) Children’s Sunday School to sit with the child and help during class, and (2) Second Service Worship to stay with the child in a classroom setting.
 
We believe that a congregation should be a place where love is expressed and received in transforming ways. People with disabilities are God-image bearers who have unique gifts and talents that have value and purpose. When these gifts are received and released within community, everyone is impacted. We therefore strive to develop worship that is truly accessible and community that is meaningfully inclusive as a way to facilitate all people encountering God’s transforming love.
 
“Tribulation brings out perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.”            Romans 5:3-4.