Disability Birthday Party Brings Joy
By Sharon Mager
BERLIN, Md. — Berlin First Baptist Church (BFBC) hosts birthday parties for young people with disabilities, blessing kids, parents, caregivers, and the church. BFBC Pastor Brad Diehl said, “One thing I never realized — but I do now — is that many people with special needs have never had a birthday party. They never had friends come to their house for a party or give them presents. So, this is something we do a few times a year. Just giving them a birthday party so they can open presents is special. It means a lot to them, and to their families, and it’s a blessing to us. We’re just thankful to do it,”
Gifts, tacos, and cupcakes, oh my! What a good time at Berlin First Baptist Church’s birthday party. (Photo courtesy of Berlin First Baptist Church)
The birthday parties are part of BFBC’s quickly growing disability ministry. They host ongoing, bi-monthly themed gatherings featuring gluten-free food, karaoke, dancing, bingo, and crafts. For the birthday celebrations, they add decorations, cupcakes with candles, a nacho bar, a piñata, and gifts. The latest event, held on July 24, drew 27 young people and approximately 65 parents and caregivers. Children’s Director Shannon Diehl, Brad’s wife, said they were pleased with the turnout and said it’s growing through word of mouth.
Shannon said, “We sang ‘Happy Birthday,’ they blew out their candles, and opened their gifts. It was a lot of fun!”
She explained that parents are asked to provide gift lists for their kids, and the church tries to fulfill as many as possible. Gifts at the July party included a helmet for dirt biking, a VeggieTales DVD, stuffed cats, purses, WWE decorations and clothing, and baby doll clothes. “One girl asked for an American Girl doll for our September party, so we’ll get that for her,” Diehl said.
The church has a dedicated budget for its disability ministry called “Finding Friends and Individuals with Needs and Disabilities.” Shannon said the church is excited about the growth and happy to contribute to the ministry. One youth, Jake, set up a lemonade stand and also sells bracelets to raise funds for the ministry.
Parents are deeply grateful. Shannon said, “They are overwhelmed that we got them what they asked for, and that we’re celebrating their child, and I’m overwhelmed by the fact that they’re letting us celebrate their child. They’re blessing us by letting us be a part of their families. It’s been really neat.”
Church member Keith Myer shared his thoughts. “I think this is amazing. I really appreciate the church’s heart for kids with disabilities. It’s a great opportunity for these young people to get something they don’t normally get. The church is doing a fantastic job coming alongside those who are lonely and may not fit in elsewhere. They’re being a blessing,” Myer said.
Reflecting on the church’s overall disability ministry, which includes a VBS, ongoing special events, and an upcoming special youth group, Pastor Brad added, “My wife, Shannon, was the first to bring the idea of starting a special needs ministry here. At first, I was like, ‘Yeah, I’m on board!’ But the more we’ve done it, the more I’ve gotten to know families, and it’s really touched my heart. It’s given me a strong desire to see this minstry grow as we love these families, serve them, and share the love of Jesus with them.”
Many participants at BFBC’s birthday party enjoyed spin painting! (Photo courtesy of Berlin First Baptist Church)
Shannon says the birthday parties are remarkably easy to put together, and that they’re a great outreach with a lot of impact for churches who want to begin ministering to individuals with disabilities and their families. She’s also happy to help any church that wants to do this. Email Shannon for more information.
Visit our webpage for more information about disability ministry.
Sharon Mager serves as BCM/D Communications Specialist/News Editor.