Sunshine Sunday: Celebrates Diversity at Grace Baptist Church

Sunshine Class new Queen, Lori

Sunshine Sunday was a special day at North Ridgeville’s Grace Baptist Church on May 6.

It was a day that was set aside to honor those who attend the church at 38079 Center Ridge Road who are physically disabled.

“We had an excellent service,” said LeighAnn Davies-Arroyo. “We gave them awards for ALL the continuous hard work and dedication that they show each Sunday and everyday in their lives!!”

A highlight came when Pastor Dennis White crowned Sunshine royalty – King James and Queen Lori.

The service was emblematic of Grace Baptist Church’s commitment to the disabled.

Grace Baptist Church Sunshine Class

Through the Sunshine Class, Grace Baptist offers a unique ministry to those who have special needs. This class ministers to those who are developmentally disabled. It is a loving and caring place for these precious souls. In addition, family members find a welcoming place for their loved ones.

: Sunshine Class new King, James

: Sunshine Class helper, Linda Kunz, was honored last week.

: Grace Baptist Church member Leigh Ann Arroyo and Dennis White

“The Sunshine Class is a team that embraces the moments week by week and enjoys each other’s company while teaching the Word of God and reading the Bible,” said Class volunteer Deborah Choma. “One by one, these moments piece together a picture of what really matters. Life is a string of highs and lows. The Sunshine Class always warms the heart and definitely revives the spirit of the soul.”

Also honored was a very faithful helper, Sunshine Class volunteer Linda Kunz. “She’s been a fantastic helper practically ever since this class got up and running!” said LeighAnn. “She’s a true and wonderful person and a sweetheart to the Sunshine Class. No matter what she has going on in her life, she’s ALWAYS there for the Sunshine Class!” The backbone of the class, added LeighAnn, is Joanie Yuhos.

: Sunshine Class helper Deborah Choma

LeighAnn reports that the Sunshine Class fills a community need. “There are times in life when our society tends to look down on others that have special needs,” she said. “I found out that other churches in the area really don’t have a special area for the physically and mentally disabled. We at Grace Baptist Church are one of the exceptions to that.”

“We love each other no matter what. We are a family!”

If you want to learn more about the Sunshine Class, a church class that is for the physically and mentally disabled people that attend Grace Baptist in North Ridgeville, please phone 440-396-7000 or email info@graceridge.net. www.graceridge.net is the website.