Tangible Reminders of God’s Love in Mississippi

By |Published On: April 28, 2021|Categories: Family Retreats|

“Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Jerry’s grandson Kynan was born with cerebral palsy. Watching his daughter navigate through all the blessings and challenges of being a special-needs mother – and loving Kynan as only a grandparent can – inspired Jerry to use his woodworking gifts to encourage other families impacted by disability, too.

Over the years Jerry has created and donated hundreds of his wooden creations to Joni and Friends Mississippi. His decorative angels, churches, birdhouses and nativity scenes are on display at Family Retreat, they’re sold as fundraisers for the ministry, and they’re given as one-of-a-kind gifts to the individuals and families we serve.

And each time one of Jerry’s pieces of art is given to a child or family affected by disability, they are reminded of the love, hope and timeless message of the Gospel.

These custom pieces have proven to be especially powerful in the lives of children and adults with autism, who often benefit greatly from having a visual, tangible object that prompts memories and assists with communication.

Jerry’s wooden treasures have given countless special-needs families a permanent reminder of Jesus, the church, and the support that comes from the body of Christ.

And since these creations have become synonymous with Joni and Friends Mississippi, they are a constant representation of the fun and fellowship experienced at Family Retreat and the many other programs and events we offer to strengthen families living under the strain of disability.

Connor is 14 years old and has autism. He is an important part of Family Retreat in Mississippi, and he was doubly blessed when he received one of Jerry’s birdhouses during our Special Delivery visit.

“Connor’s mother was so encouraged to know it was made by a grandfather who has a special spot for those living with disability because of his own grandson, Kynan.”

Tyler has two things in common with Connor: he, too, has autism, and he was also delighted with the birdhouse we gave him. That Special Delivery from our Mississippi team encouraged Tyler and his family during a challenging season.

And Pam, who has cerebral palsy, is grateful for her birdhouse for many reasons. Pam lives in an independent living home with others but has been separated from her mother for quite some time. This, understandably, has been difficult for both Pam and her mother, especially as her mother’s health is declining. Pam attends Family Retreat and the other events facilitated by Joni and Friends Mississippi but has not been able to go to church since the onset of the pandemic. 

When we gave both Pam and her mother their own beautiful birdhouses, God not only delivered joy to their doorsteps – he also used the birdhouses to help Pam and her dear mom feel connected even though they are living apart. In this way, Jerry’s labor of love has brought Pam and her mother closer together. They may need to live in separate locations, but they can look at their birdhouses and know they’re always united as a family. And they’re always part of the family of God.

Kynan is Jerry’s inspiration for his service with Joni and Friends. 

“Giving to Joni and Friends just means more because of my grandson,” explains Jerry. 

And by being part of all God is doing through our Mississippi team, he’s changing the world one family – and one birdhouse – at a time.

Perhaps Connor’s mother said it best, “We love our birdhouses. They’re such a sweet reminder that we are not on this journey alone.”

Support Joni and Friends Mississippi

You can be part of everything God is doing through our Joni and Friends Mississippi office! Your generous support allows more and more families living with disability to experience the miraculous love and hope of Jesus!

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