Making Way for Inclusion and Acceptance Through Family Retreat
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Ephesians 2:10
Angel and her two daughters encountered Christ at Family Retreat in wonderful ways! Arlie is six years old and has cerebral palsy.
She positively beamed when she explained, “My favorite part of Family Retreat is that people are so kind!”
And her 13-year-old sister Ainsley loves being able to spend time with friends her age without worrying about little Arlie.
“Family Retreat is our safe place. We feel loved and accepted, and when we’re there I know Arlie will not be wishing that someday she can walk so she can do the stuff everyone else is doing.”
Angel shared this with confidence because at Family Retreat, everything is wheelchair accessible!
“I love that I can do stuff!” Arlie declares.
And little Arlie sure does do a lot at Family Retreat! Whether it’s swimming, dancing, doing crafts or mastering the hula hoop, Arlie takes advantage of every opportunity and thoroughly enjoys living life to the full without anything getting in her way.
“I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”
John 10:10
“Someone makes a way while we’re here for her to be able to do everything and to feel included,” explains Angel.
That’s what Family Retreat is all about – making sure that everything is fully accessible to everyone, so that in the midst of all the fun and fellowship, each and every family member can see and feel God’s never-ending love.
“You are the God who sees me. I have now seen the One who sees me.”
Genesis 16:13
And Ainsley reaps all the benefits of Family Retreat, too.
She explains, “It’s definitely easier for me to connect with other people at Family Retreat. People here understand what it’s like to go through things with siblings with disabilities on a day-to-day basis. I can’t wait ‘til we can come again next time!”
Angel sums up her family’s experience beautifully when she says that at Family Retreat, “I see Jesus present everywhere! Everywhere we turn there’s always somebody representing Jesus and reminding us that he loves us and that we’re all created special.”
No wonder Angel says that the friends she meets at Family Retreat are more like family.
Your Partnership Makes All the Difference!
Your prayers and financial support make it possible to reach families navigating the challenges of disability. Help us share the hope and love of Jesus through Family Retreat!
