Sharing the Love of Christ with Children, Youth, and Adults with Special Needs
The Special Friends Ministry has two goals—to give individuals with special needs a safe space to learn about the Gospel, and to allow their families members or caregivers to attend church with peace of mind.
Faith-Based Activities for Special Friends of All Ages
We offer a variety of experience rooms and classes for different levels of need. We will work with your family to find the ideal class placement for your Special Friend.
Children’s Ministry
Sundays at 9:30am and 11:00am. Preschool and elementary aged children will learn about the Gospel through song, movement, and play in our various experience rooms.
Physically Challenged Ministry
Sundays at 9:30am and 11:00am. Our Special Friends with severe mobility limitations can learn about Jesus through fun activities designed with their unique needs in mind.
Youth Connect Groups
Sundays at 9:30am and 11:00am. Teens and young adult Special Friends can explore Bible stories through fun activities and movement every Sunday.
Adult Connect Group
Sundays at 11:00am. Special Friends aged 21+ are welcome to join us for Bible study, fellowship, and food every Sunday.
Inclusion Ministry
Sundays at 9:30am and 11:00am. A Special Friend can be paired with a buddy and integrated into a typical Sunday class or Connect Group.
Wednesday Night Activities
Wednesdays at 6:30pm. While you attend a Wednesday night Bible study or activity, your Special Friend can enjoy Bible lessons, crafts, and social skills development in our experience rooms.
Individualized Discipleship Plans
We will work with you and your Special Friend to create an individualized plan that will help your Friend reach a new level of development spiritually, emotionally, behaviorally, and beyond.
Outreach Ministry
We hold several events throughout the year for Special Friends, including Vacation Bible School, a family festival, summer camps, and more.
Reach Ministry
Are you interested in starting a Special Friends program at your church? We’d love to share our procedures and successes with you! Contact Pat Bourgeois at specialfriends@fbccov.org to learn more.
My child has a special diagnosis. How do I know where she belongs?
We can help you determine the correct placement so your child can thrive. Contact us through specialfriends@fbccov.org.
I am visiting the area during the holidays. Can my child who has a special diagnosis be placed in your Ministry temporarily while we attend church services?
Yes, but contact us in advance to make arrangements and answer some questions so we can help your child have the best experience possible. During the holidays we have a revised schedule, which we can share with you.
My child is three years old and has not been evaluated, yet I suspect she needs your services. Does she need to have a diagnosis?
Pre-schoolers who have not been evaluated do not need to have a diagnosis. We will evaluate her and help with placement.
Is your Ministry for any age or ability?
Yes. All ages and abilities are welcome.
My child is in a wheelchair and cannot use his hands or feet. Do you have a place for my child?
We do, and we welcome anyone who is physically challenged.
My child is not potty trained. Can they still attend?
Yes, but call us in advance so we can discuss specific needs and rules we have in place.
Will my child be safe?
Yes. We have security cameras in each room and a security badge check-in/check-out system. We have a paging system and send a pager with the parent in case we need you. We have a group of caring and talented volunteers who supervise in our Special Friends Ministry and have completed a background check.
I am unfamiliar with First Baptist Church Covington’s campus. Where are you located?
We are at the East Entrance of the building.
I want my child to have the Gospel presented to him. Do you present the Gospel?
We do. Our adults, youth, and children use Lifeway curriculum and DVDs. Our “littles” have selected lessons which repeat throughout the month.
What time do I drop off my child for these classes?
Please drop your child off 15 minutes prior to the start time of his Sunday class. E.g., if your child is attending a 9:30am class, please drop him off at 9:15am.
Can I talk with someone prior to bringing my child?
Yes. We would love to talk with you. Initiate a call by emailing specialfriends@fbccov.org and give us your name and number. We will return your call as soon as possible.
My child is non-verbal (or deaf) so I am afraid to leave them.
We currently serve many children who are non-verbal, and parents state the children are excited to return each week. We are also prepared to assist children who are hearing impaired or deaf.
Has God laid it on your heart to serve with our Special Friends? All we ask is for one hour a month of your time. Just answer a few questions to let us know you’re interested!
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