Last year, I shared the story of Abby Hamilton, a current tenth grade classmate of our older daughter who initiated and led a outreach event, “FBC Luau 2011” to welcome and serve adults in our community with developmental disabilities. Abby’s effort drew lots of attention from local media. Check out this story from the local NBC station that aired following the Luau.
The Luau was a triple win. It was a win for the Kingdom because many adults who don’t otherwise experience much recognition had an opportunity to experience the love of Christ through a party thrown in their honor at a local church. It was a win because lots of kids and adults had the opportunity to use their gifts and talents in serving others. It was also a win because the Luau led at least one family to reconsider attending church because of the experience their son had at the Luau. Check out this blog post following the Luau from Rebecca Hamilton, Abby’s mother. Here’s a quote from her post that sums the event up nicely, and also sums up why we do what we do at Key Ministry:
“So, back to that Friday night party and the Sunday morning worship that followed it. It’s not about the party at all, is it? It’s about being the hands and feet of Jesus Christ to families who are affected by disability. It’s about meeting them where they are, with lots of love and no judgment. When we do this, we have a rare chance to serve up a little slice of Heaven right here on Earth. And that’s where the real party is!”
Last year’s Luau was such a success that the second annual Luau is scheduled for Friday, July 6. Abby was on the noon news today discussing the event…
Here’s a link to the Facebook page for the 2012 Luau to volunteer or learn more…
Key Ministry’s mission is to help churches reach families affected by disability by providing FREE resources to pastors, volunteers, and individuals who wish to create an inclusive ministry environment. We invite you to partner with us as we advance the Kingdom through our collaboration with the local and global church. We have designed our Key Catalog to create fun opportunities for our ministry supporters to join in our mission. The Key Catalog includes a variety of gift options for every budget. A gift from the Key Catalog also makes for an amazing gift for a friend or loved one who is passionate about seeing the Body of Christ become more inclusive of people with disabilities. Click here to check it out!
