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People Who Inspire Joni: Connie and Julie Hutchinson

  • By: Joni Eareckson Tada
  • Jan. 12, 2012
  • 10 Comments
  • Joni's Posts

joni and ken with the hutchinsons at family retreatWho are the leaders in disability ministry I most admire? I’d have to include Connie Hutchinson (left in the photo) and her daughter, Julie. It was Connie who helped develop the disability ministry at the Evangelical Free Church of Fullerton – and today, they have a thriving outreach to intellectually disabled adults, special needs classes on Sunday morning, a community respite program, peer groups, and more. It all got started when Julie was born with Down syndrome – in fact, Julie was the inspiration for Connie’s drive and enthusiasm. Now, many years later, this duo takes disability ministry overseas – Julie has even spoken on behalf of intellectually disabled adults in Morocco. Three cheers for this mother/daughter team who have made real waves in churches across the country.

 
 

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10 Comments

 
Joni, you have been an inspiration to me for many years. Our 10 year old grandson, who was born four months premature, has Asperger's Syndrome and ADD. He gets down on himself and struggles so with social interactions. One day I found him in my office crying. When I asked him, "Connor, what's wrong?" His response was "Nana, I don't know why I'm here." Have you ever considered writing a book specifically to encourage children on the autism spectrum? If you have published something with this group as the focus, please let me know. Connor is encouraged by true stories of people who have overcome challenges.
  • April 28, 2012
  • 8:12 a.m.
  • Jean Bouas
I also have a mentally challenged daughter...and I am so happy that I found a church in our area that has bible studies for special needs people. And..the bible teacher is fantastic with our children...it really touches me that he is so...because he does not have any disabled children of his own...yet..he is so patient and understanding with all their needs!! Thank you, Jesus,for placing Mr. Skocik in our lives!
  • April 15, 2012
  • 4:13 p.m.
  • Georgette Michalkovich
Hi Joni, Just wanted to tell you that I listen to the radio broadcast everyday while I am getting ready for work. You and Ken inspire me and remind me what is important in life. Oh, by the way, LOVE the new hair do. It looks so youthful on you. Just beautiful!
  • Feb. 16, 2012
  • 9:45 a.m.
  • Kristy Muller
opps! and Ken too! (sorry Ken!) These bi-focals get me sometimes! smile!
  • Jan. 23, 2012
  • 1:05 p.m.
  • rhonda brown
So fun to see you and Connie and Julie via technnology! I got to see Connie last year when she came to Des Moines to do a disability conference with us! Three great ladies in one picture! Blessings on you today!
  • Jan. 23, 2012
  • 1:05 p.m.
  • rhonda brown
may God richly bless this ministry!
  • Jan. 16, 2012
  • 3:26 p.m.
  • keith@gerri harlow
Great story. Warms my heart.
  • Jan. 14, 2012
  • 1:41 p.m.
  • Theresa Schwartz
You have been inspiring me for a long time - ever since you wrote the first book and the movie came out. God has used you so remarkably. I'm glad my good friend, Careen Peterson is a part of your ministry. I was her pastor's wife when she was a little girl. Under the same wings, Nelda
  • Jan. 14, 2012
  • 12:17 p.m.
  • Nelda Jackson
I had a cousin who had down syndrome who also was in inspiration in my life. She had a job, she was with and participated in the Special Olympics. She went to be with Jesus a couple of years ago. Another angel had gotten her wings. I cry everytime I think of Kendra. Thank you Joni, for your inspiration.
  • Jan. 14, 2012
  • 12:05 p.m.
  • Bryan
Dear Joni, all people are equal with God,because the Bible says that in various places. If you are a professor or a labourer, able or disabled,God has made us with a certain purpose.He is our Creator Our true self and meaning becomes clear if we follow Jesus Christ.He is the Creator of all things for He is God Him- self.And all creation should give Him all the glory for who He is and what He has done and still does and is going to do.
  • Jan. 12, 2012
  • 10:55 p.m.
  • San Tjoa