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So Much Joy at Rainbow Express
Twenty-one years ago in North Carolina, a mom wanted to find a way for her son with developmental disabilities to be involved in a summer day camp, just like all his "typical" friends. Out of this desire for inclusion came the original Rainbow Express, a week-long day camp for kids with disabilities to enjoy, that is sensitive to their needs. Rainbow also became a place for children without disabilities to learn how to love their friends with disabilities the same way Jesus does by being paired with a same-aged peer to be their “buddy” for the week. Ashlee Hopson served as a part of this camp in North Carolina and learned the joy that comes from being in relationships with people with disabilities.
Eight years ago, Ashlee saw a very real need in Fullerton—children with disabilities were overlooked and unable to participate in the summer Bible day camps offered in the area. She started Rainbow Express here at EvFree Fullerton to meet this growing need and to show God's love to students with disabilities and their families. Over the past eight years...
Click here to read more from Becca Stavert.
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The Great Orchestrator
Each day we had friends from the West End/The Voice come and sing for the kids as well as share a testimony or an encouraging word. Hard as I tried, I couldn't find anyone to fill the Thursday slot. So, we decided that EvFree Fullerton short-termer, Luanne, would fill the slot and play a borrowed cello. Before she played, she shared a very personal story about losing a child at 183 days and how the Lord brought her family through that difficult time. Luanne encouraged the children to think about what they would do with the days they were given. She shared John 3:16 and tied it in beautifully with her story. Then Luanne played the cello. I watched her face reflect the joy of the Lord radiantly.
Afterwards, we always let the children ask questions of the performer. Tyrese (new to camp this year) raised his hand and started in on his question, but he stopped abruptly, got very quiet, and then with the most tenderness I think I've ever heard said, "Luanne, I'm really sorry about your daughter." Needless to say, I was a puddle for about 10 minutes. Later, in small groups, the children spoke with their counselors about difficulties they had experienced or were currently going through. The stories were heartbreaking. The counselors shared their own stories with ways God had met them in difficult times and encouraging verses from the Bible. I have no doubt that my inability to find a Thursday performer was orchestrated by God. His truth was shared and seeds were planted. To Him alone be the glory.
—Shared by our Overseas Partner with the London I/II team
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Click here or on the link below to read other stories or to submit your own. We want to hear how God is working in your life.
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Congregational Meeting Recap
We held a congregational meeting on Thursday, July 21 to meet everyone who will be involved in our Senior Pastor search. This was an opportunity to get acquainted with those involved and learn how the process will work. Below is the video of the meeting. See all the slides here. If you have any questions, please email them to the Elders at search@evfreefullerton.com.
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SAVE THE DATE!
All Church Family Picnic
Monday September 5 (Labor Day) at Oak Canyon Park
Come PARTY AT THE PARK with us, and enjoy the 40' Ferris Wheel, bounce houses, free play vintage video arcade, lake with paddle boats, a baking contest, vintage car show, sports fields and food for purchase including an affordable family-friendly lunch. Parking is $7 (purchased ahead) or $10 at the park.
Ticket sales for parking and lunch will begin Sunday August 14. Watch for more details!
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