Special Needs Ministry
The VIP Ministry exists to ensure that individuals with disabilities can encounter Jesus, grow in faith and belong in every part of church life.
We provide a welcoming and inclusive church community for families and individuals with varying abilities. Every person is created in God's image, deeply loved and fully valued.
VIP stands for value, include and protect.
VALUE
We affirm the inherent worth of every individual. Each person with special needs brings unique gifts and reflects God’s creativity and love.
“You are worth more than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31
INCLUDE
We believe every person belongs. From classrooms to worship, we adapt and support so all individuals can participate fully in the life of our church.
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27
PROTECT
We’re committed to safety, trust and compassion — offering a secure, nurturing environment for all families.
“Be strong and courageous … for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
We have a specially designed suite for individuals with special learning and sensory needs. In this space, we provide a safe, interactive and loving environment to learn about God and build friendships with others. Our space is staffed with caring, trained volunteers, and ratios are kept low to guarantee individualized attention.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
• BUDDY PROGRAM:
1-on-1 support during church activities/service
• SENSORY ROOM:
Calm, quiet space for regulation
• SENSORY BAGS:
Available to check out during all services and events, offering tools like headphones, fidgets, and Play-Doh to help create a more comfortable and inclusive experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
• ADAPTED CURRICULUM:
Lessons that meet every individuals needs
• CAREGIVER SUPPORT:
Our VIP caregiver group meets the 1st Saturday of every month following our 5:30 pm worship service. This is a great opportunity to connect with others in a similar season of life as well as come together to share resources.
WHEN BARRIERS FADE AND EVERY PERSON IS EMPOWERED TO FULLY PARTICIPATE, INDIVIDUALS OF ALL ABILITIES FIND CONNECTION, PURPOSE AND A TRUE SENSE OF BELONGING.
Yearly Events:
This is a FREE event at Boo on Ballard designed to create a welcoming and enjoyable Halloween experience for individuals of all ages and abilities. Costumes encouraged!
The VIP Ministry is thrilled to offer current families a night out! We will be offering a fun filled evening for our Special Needs students and their siblings (ages 2-17) while their parents or caregivers take a break for the evening.
We are thrilled to offer the opportunity to visit Santa in a quiet and welcoming environment to individuals with varying abilities! Visits include a private audience with Santa as well as complimentary gluten free cookies. There is also time for crafts before or after visiting with Santa.
Camp VIP is for individuals with varying needs. Hosted by The Cross VIP Ministry, this camp is designed with your kiddo in mind with four fun days of sensory friendly activities all while learning about the Goodness of God!
See what's coming next in VIP Ministry!
Let us know you're coming!
Download and fill out our INTAKE FORM. Upon completion, email it to vip@thecross.com.
QUESTIONS?
Email vip@thecross.com for more information.
Special Needs Ministry
The VIP Ministry exists to ensure that individuals with disabilities can encounter Jesus, grow in faith and belong in every part of church life.
We provide a welcoming and inclusive church community for families and individuals with varying abilities. Every person is created in God's image, deeply loved and fully valued.
VIP stands for value, include and protect.
VALUE
We affirm the inherent worth of every individual. Each person with special needs brings unique gifts and reflects God’s creativity and love.
“You are worth more than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31
INCLUDE
We believe every person belongs. From classrooms to worship, we adapt and support so all individuals can participate fully in the life of our church.
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27
PROTECT
We’re committed to safety, trust and compassion — offering a secure, nurturing environment for all families.
“Be strong and courageous … for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
We have a specially designed suite for individuals with special learning and sensory needs. In this space, we provide a safe, interactive and loving environment to learn about God and build friendships with others. Our space is staffed with caring, trained volunteers, and ratios are kept low to guarantee individualized attention.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
• BUDDY PROGRAM:
1-on-1 support during church activities/service
• SENSORY ROOM:
Calm, quiet space for regulation
• SENSORY BAGS:
Available to check out during all services and events, offering tools like headphones, fidgets, and Play-Doh to help create a more comfortable and inclusive experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
• ADAPTED CURRICULUM:
Lessons that meet every individuals needs
• CAREGIVER SUPPORT:
Our VIP caregiver group meets the 1st Saturday of every month following our 5:30 pm worship service. This is a great opportunity to connect with others in a similar season of life as well as come together to share resources.
WHEN BARRIERS FADE AND EVERY PERSON IS EMPOWERED TO FULLY PARTICIPATE, INDIVIDUALS OF ALL ABILITIES FIND CONNECTION, PURPOSE AND A TRUE SENSE OF BELONGING.
Yearly Events:
This is a FREE event at Boo on Ballard designed to create a welcoming and enjoyable Halloween experience for individuals of all ages and abilities. Costumes encouraged!
The VIP Ministry is thrilled to offer current families a night out! We will be offering a fun filled evening for our Special Needs students and their siblings (ages 2-17) while their parents or caregivers take a break for the evening.
We are thrilled to offer the opportunity to visit Santa in a quiet and welcoming environment to individuals with varying abilities! Visits include a private audience with Santa as well as complimentary gluten free cookies. There is also time for crafts before or after visiting with Santa.
Camp VIP is for individuals with varying needs. Hosted by The Cross VIP Ministry, this camp is designed with your kiddo in mind with four fun days of sensory friendly activities all while learning about the Goodness of God!
See what’s coming next in VIP Ministry!
Let us know you’re coming!
Download and fill out our INTAKE FORM. Upon completion, email it to vip@thecross.com.
QUESTIONS? Email vip@thecross.com for more information.