When our family first started coming to Amberlea Church, I have to be honest, it was about being involved in a smaller church. We had been attending a much larger church and we were finding that our son who has ASD was having difficulty being in such a large space. There was more noise and more people (which for church is a good thing!) and at that point in time people really did not understand autism so it was much harder to talk about and to have his needs met.

If I am also being honest, another reason was Pastor Mona!!! She is one in a million as you all know!

From the first moment we stepped in the door at Amberlea Church, we felt welcome. From the first time our kids went to KidZone, we were met with such lovely people who took the time to ask us questions, find out how they could best support our family and they just cared so much. We always felt a part of the Amberlea community and we always felt supported and loved. Our kids were welcomed and able to worship in the ways they could.

One of the reasons for this blog is to express genuine gratitude for the support of our congregation with our Exceptional Family Ministry. We have had open conversations with people about our program. The congregation has graciously amended things for our program on Sunday mornings. They permitted modifications to accommodate safety issues to the building allowing us to run our community program (F.A.C.E.). Also they have provided the space for us to do this which connects us to the Amberlea Community outside of church.

This program would not exist without the acceptance and vision of the church allowing us to start this program.

If it wasn’t for such support and encouragement, our church would not be where it is with this program. I humbly want to express my heartfelt appreciation to each and every person in our congregation. We have been so blessed in so many ways and this allows us to provide this service to such a special group of individuals.

As I have developed relationships in our church, I personally feel truly blessed for the godly people of this congregation. I am so proud and happy to be a part of this church! It truly feels like home and it also feels like part of such an amazing extended family!

I think this verse describes our church well:

“Love one another with brotherly affection.
Outdo one another in showing honor.
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek and show hospitality.”
Romans 12:10-13

Shelly Wedge
Exceptional Family Ministries Coordinator
Amberlea Church