Closer to Jesus! Closer to Each Other!

By Joni and Friends|Published On: June 23, 2021|Categories: Family Retreats, Ministry|

“If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”
1 Corinthians 12:26-27

Jason is 19 years old and has polymicrogyria cerebral palsy, but using a power wheelchair and having steel rods surgically implanted in his back (only to be removed again less than two years later) aren’t the only challenges he’s had to overcome. Sadly, as it is with many families living with disability, struggles associated with rejection and isolation are real.

And the special needs families who need support and encouragement the most, often find that their circle of friends dwindles more and more as the years roll by.

Jason’s mom, Dianna explains, “Our group of friends got smaller and smaller. People just don’t understand Jason’s situation, which is a shame. Jason has so much love to give, but people don’t want to get close.”

Of course, when one member of the family feels the sting of rejection, every member of the family suffers. That’s why Joni and Friends makes sure to include the entire family in our programs like Family Retreat, Family Retreat at Home, and our online support groups.

Jason’s sister, Emma, is part of the siblings’ group at our Chicago Family Retreat.

“I can relate with others who understand what it is like to have a sibling with special needs,” shared Emma.

At Family Retreat, we’re sure to let every person in every family know that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made in God’s image – whether we have disabilities or not – and every member of the family is celebrated!

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Psalm 139:14

Dianna captured the heart of Joni and Friends Chicago when she said, “Family Retreat is a family reunion, and people are waiting for Jason to get there so they can be with him. We don’t get that at home.”

Jason’s dad, Jason Senior, went on to explain, “Through Joni and Friends we established lifelong friends that not only walk in the same path as us but face the same day-to-day difficulties. This has been a true breath of fresh air in the midst of what is happening in the world these days.”

Our Joni and Friends Chicago team helps families get closer to each other and closer to Jesus. Jason’s whole family chose to be baptized at Family Retreat, something Jason Senior said might never have happened otherwise.

Thank you for bringing families like Jason’s into a community of friendship and hope through your ongoing prayers and support. You are welcoming special needs families into the family of God!