In Powhatan, Virginia, Miracles of God Church has created a unique space for individuals and families in the special needs community to worship freely and joyfully. Ten years ago, Pastor Greg LeMaster, inspired by his autistic son, pioneered this Fresh Expression of Church. Meeting twice a month, and supported by the weekly Special Buddies Sunday school, Miracles of God provides a welcoming, inclusive space for families who may struggle to find a home in traditional church settings.
Tackling Isolation with Inclusion
For many families with special needs children, attending church can feel overwhelming. Isolation is a common challenge, as their children often don’t easily fit into typical programs or social circles (keyministry.org/five-practical-ways-churches-can-support-special-needs-families). At Miracles of God, this isolation is countered by a church community that intentionally integrates both typical and special needs children into its worship and activities, helping everyone feel like they belong (lifewayresearch.com/9-ideas-to-disciple-those-with-special-needs-in-the-church).
Breaking Down Accessibility Barriers
Physical accessibility barriers are another significant hurdle. Many churches are not equipped with the ramps, wide doorways, or sensory-friendly spaces that some children require. Miracles of God has overcome these challenges by creating a welcoming, physically accessible environment. Pastor LeMaster also prioritizes sensory-friendly events like outings to the Santa Train and participation in the Special Olympics, where families can gather and celebrate together without feeling out of place.
Supporting Parents and Caregivers
Moreover, many parents of children with special needs feel emotionally drained and unsupported. Constant advocacy for their children can make it difficult to relax or connect with others during church (radical.net). At Miracles of God, these families find a sanctuary where they are embraced without judgment. The church empowers members of the special needs community to take active roles in worship, giving parents and children alike a sense of purpose and value.
Empowering Leadership and Participation
“We love to empower many of our friends to help lead in the church by singing all types of gospel songs, sharing their amazing poetry, and leading us in a wonderful time of prayer. We love the interaction throughout the church as several testimonies are shared in the church from individuals as well as parents and caretakers giving praises while giving thanksgiving about their loved ones.“
Greg LeMaster, Pioneer
This inclusive, adaptive approach reflects the heart of the Fresh Expressions movement, which seeks to create church in ways that are deeply contextual, meeting people where they are and shaping ministry around their needs (https://www.churchofengland.org/about/fresh-expressions-church-england). As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:12, “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.” At Miracles of God, this truth is lived out as each person, regardless of ability, contributes to the life of the church.
Snapshot of a Fresh Expression of Church
What is the Fresh Expression called?
Miracles of God Church
Where is it?
Powhatan, Virginia
Who is it for?
A special service for our Special Needs Community meeting on the 2nd Monday of each month
What do they do?
A sensory-friendly church where individuals and families with special needs can come together and be themselves as they joyfully worship Jesus with all their hearts
Who is the Pioneer?
The Reverend Greg LeMaster has served as Deacon, Teacher, and in Outreach at Graceland Baptist Church. He was ordained into the gospel ministry in September of 2013 and has been active in church planting of house churches, dinner churches, and Fresh Expression Fellowships since July of 2010. He is currently serving as Associate Pastor of Outreach at Graceland.
Where can I learn more?
Miracles of God Church
