Welcome to another week!

Nearly 100 women and men attended the Hidden Disabilities Seminar at Fallowfield United Methodist on May 1. Katie Wetherbee and Dr. Steve Grcevich of Key Ministry Foundation spoke about getting in touch with families affected by hidden disabilities within our community. They encouraged us to understand the features and challenges individuals and parents of people with hidden disabilities face.

They also told us to share the hope of the Gospel with those who are broken; to be ourselves, and use the gifts God gives us to help those in our churches with special needs and hidden disabilities.

Wetherbee encouraged the audience that it doesn’t take professional training – it takes you being yourself in the moment to help that child fit in.

Dr. Grcevich, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, reminded the audience that it is 50 percent less likely that a child with a hidden disability will be meaningfully attached to a church. He tried to teach us how some Sunday school classrooms and teaching methods stand in the way of reaching those with hidden disabilities.

Ceil Belasco from the Parent Education & Advocacy Leadership Center invited folks who know special needs kids to sign up for a mailing list through The PEAL Center. The Center provides services for free for Pennsylvania residents.

The audience then had a chance to attend breakout sessions about setting up classrooms for all learners and making parent connections. Attendees then had a choice of a session on sensory issues or respite care.

Congratulations to the whole Building Supportive Communities team for planning and bringing off such a successful event.

``Did you enjoy Mother’s Day? I’m so thankful for my mama. I’m so glad I live near her and get to see her at least once a week. And I’m so thankful that we’re emotionally close, too. But I know this is a painful holiday for many people. Could you please pray for those who have lost their mothers?

Thank you.

``Adamsville Presbyterian Church held its annual Mother-Daughter banquet on May 6. I used to attend this potluck supper every year with my late grandma, Millie Moore. I can’t bring myself to go anymore. It’s not the same without her smiling face and bouncy walk.

``Do you like yard sales? If you do, then come and browse from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. on May 2,2 at Fallowfield United Methodist Church. Please note the time change; it starts at 8 a.m., not 10 a.m., as I reported last week. If you have any questions, please contact Cindy Temple at (814) 382-7209.

``The monthly Senior Citizens luncheon is at noon on May 15 at Fallowfield United Methodist. Come out and enjoy a free home cooked meal and visit with your friends.

Have a wonderful week. Blessings!