Shepherd's Ministry
This ministy is designed the people of our community who are mentally and physically challenged. Many activities are provided: singing, Bible stories, memorizing Bible verses, crafts, field trips (e.g. basketball games), birthday and holiday celebrations. We have a very dedicated staff, including a Registered Nurse, who work with these "special needs" individuals.
Bus routes have been established throughout Lenawee county for our special needs people. They can come to their "own class" to learn about Jesus.
History of the Shepherd's Ministry
In the fall of 1973, God put in the heart of Lois Bennett a burden for the mentally and physically handicapped people. Under the direction of Assistant Pastor Lynn Wakefield, she and other members of Berean Baptist Church started what is now known as the Shepherds Ministry.
Berean’s ministry was named after the Shepherds Home in Union Grove, Wisconsin. Berean’s Shepherds Class started with just two people. Soon, word spread around the community that there was a new ministry designed especially for these special people.
The class saw consistent growth through the ‘70s and ‘80s and eventually had to meet on Sunday mornings in the church’s fellowship hall. The class is currently averaging 100 people each week, and has moved to the Gymnasium in the Berean Baptist Academy building.
One cannot attend Berean for long without recognizing the love for this special ministry. Though the Shepherds are limited somewhat in their mental or physical abilities, they are a vital part of the church. Several attend all the services at Berean, and their spirit of love is a great blessing to the congregation.
