Wayside Baptist Church

SPECIAL MINISTRIES

An oasis of safety, respect, and joy

A Small Group serving young adults to seniors of all ages with intellectual and physical challenges.

Our Mission

Special Ministries serves young adults to seniors of all ages with varying intellectual and physical challenges. Our program provides a loving, nurturing environment where each person is viewed as a unique and beautiful creation of our Lord Jesus, who loves and cherishes each one. We celebrate every student's birthday, awards, medals, achievements, and successes.

We have been told we are the happiest group at Wayside.

What We Teach

We teach our students all about God, the Bible, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Prayer, praise and worship music, Bible study, and recognition of successes are central to our ministry.

  • Lifeway's Access Personal Study Guide
  • Specialized learning materials
  • Engaging activities, role-playing, and concrete examples of Biblical truths
  • Prayer, praise & worship music
  • Recognition of every student's wins

Sunday Mornings

The Fellowship Hall9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  1. 9:00 – 9:30 AMArrivals, socialization, lesson-related activities (word searches, coloring pages, crafts)
  2. 9:30 – 9:50 AMPrayer, recognition, praise & worship
  3. 9:50 – 10:30 AMBible lesson
  4. 10:30 – 10:45 AMFellowship & refreshments
  5. 10:45 AMHead to the Worship Center for 11 AM Worship Service

Beyond Sunday

Special Ministries connects with the wider community through partnerships and missions throughout the year.

UM Best Buddies

Once a month, we partner with the University of Miami Best Buddies Chapter — a time of socialization and mentorship that connects college students with our Wayside students. Some of these friendships last well beyond graduation.

UM Fun Day

Every year, we attend a University of Miami student service event called Fun Day — a celebration of inclusion, community, and joy.

Operation Christmas Child

We support missions through Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child every year, usually collecting 100 or more shoeboxes filled with gifts for children in need around the world.

Moments at Special Ministries

Sunday mornings, friendships, celebrations.

Get in Touch

Connie Samuels

Connie Samuels

Director of Special Ministries