A change of heart for JCM participant
Ask Ryan what he has learned in Jesus Cares Ministries, and he doesn’t hesitate: “Everyone is like a gemstone — maybe rough around the edges, but beautiful when polished with forgiveness and grace.”
For a few years, Ryan came to JCM at Zion Lutheran Church in Olivia, Minn., once or twice a year. He recently he had a change of heart. He’s hardly missed in four months.
“Ryan livens up our night with his endless jokes and puns. He is quite a character,” said Julie Luetke, the local JCM program leader and a JCM Consultant with The Lutheran Home Association.
“I like to make people laugh in case somebody has had a bad day. I try to lighten their spirit so they can forget what troubles them,” Ryan said.
At Christmas, Ryan volunteered to play a shepherd in the JCM program. It was the highlight of the Christmas season for his mom. His parents have actively encouraged Ryan in his faith, but he hadn’t previously shown such dedication. Ryan lives in a group home, and has been attending a church nearby with his housemates. Recently, he asked to become a member.
He comes to JCM for fellowship with the Rebels, the local Special Olympics team. It’s a space where he can let loose, have fun, sing and be a little silly. He can be himself.
“It’s OK if I mess up. I’m already forgiven by God,” Ryan said. “Like the old saying goes, ‘To err is human, to forgive is Godly.’”
Ryan is one of nearly 2,000 participants in our 140 current JCM programs. Hearing God’s message of faith, hope and love has given Ryan a passion for God. Donate today to grow our JCM programs and bring God’s word to more people! Visit www.tlha.org/donate or call (888) 600-TLHA.