Joni's Corner

Who 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 ...

Kristyn Getty and her husband Keith have been at the forefront of the modern hymn movement over the past decade demonstrating the ability to successfully bridge the gap between the traditional and contemporary. Ken and I first met the Gettys at a National Religious Broadcaster’s Convention when, on the spur-of-the-moment, we gathered to sing hymns at a reception – before long, scores of broadcasters joined in to harmonize. After that, the four of us became fast friends. Keith and Kristyn have visited the Joni and Friends International Disability Center and performed (with their band) for our staff – during their visit ...