Matthew's Ministry
Awareness, outreach and support for persons with special needs and their families.
It is our desire to show the love of God to all people and to incorporate them into the life of the church.
Our child has a place where he can be himself and where he can feel loved. He is learning about God and creating his faith journey through that. It's such a relief to have Matthew's Ministry here.Montera Jurascheks
Our Purpose
Matthew’s Ministry supports, empowers and encourages individuals of all abilities to become deeply committed Christians by knowing, loving and serving God.
At Resurrection Leawood, we have just moved into a new space in Building B that will allow us to better meet the needs of our Matthew's Ministry participants.
Matthew's Ministry Programs
Family Night Out
All-Church Program
Family Night Out offers an evening of respite for parents and caregivers while also offering an evening of fun for those with special needs. Participants are paired with volunteers to enjoy dinner, games, crafts and a movie. All ages are welcome to register as well as siblings of children with special needs.
Family Night Out is offered one Saturday evening each month, 5-8pm.
Future dates:
Saturday, January 25, 2020
Saturday, February 22, 2020
Saturday, March 28, 2020
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Registrations will be made available after the previous FNO event.
For questions about Family Night Out call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Family Night Out (Resurrection West)
All-Church Program
Family Night Out offers an evening of respite for parents and caregivers while also offering an evening of fun for those with special needs. Participants are paired with volunteers to enjoy dinner, games, crafts and a movie. All ages are welcome to register as well as siblings of children with special needs.
Family Night Out is offered several times a year, 5:30-8:30 pm, usually on a Fri night.
For questions about Family Night Out (Resurrection West) call Christie Walker at (913) 627-9656, or email using the form below.
Angel Care
All-Church Program
Angel Care Providers are available at Sunday 10:45 am and 5 pm worship services. We invite all individuals with special needs to attend for quality care during worship service. We also provide one-on-one, individual care for participants, allowing them to join classroom activities or interact solely with Angel Care Providers.
For more information, contact Matthew's Ministry at 913-544-0295 or email Jennifer Ross.
For questions about Angel Care call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Angel Care
All-Church Program
Angel Care Providers are available during worship services. We invite all individuals with special needs to attend for quality care during worship service. We also provide one-on-one, individual care for participants, allowing them to join classroom activities or interact solely with Angel Care Providers.
For more information, email Christie Walker.
For questions about Angel Care call Christie Walker at (913) 627-9656, or email using the form below.
Matthew's Ministry Youth Group
All-Church Group
Youth Group students enjoy music at the beginning of the 11:00 service in the Foundry on Sunday mornings. After the scripture reading, the students move to a classroom (in the Matthew's Ministry wing) to engage in fellowship and Sunday school lessons.
For questions about Matthew's Ministry Youth Group call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Sonflower Bakery
All-Church Program
SonflowerBakers bake scones, cookies, bread and cupcakes three times a week. This gives them an excellent opportunity to enjoy time with fellow Matthew's Ministry Bakers and volunteers.
Bakery Shifts:
- Mondays: 12-3 pm
- Wednesdays: 12-3 pm
- Fridays: 12-3 pm
2019 Sonflower Bakery Retail Order Form
For questions about Sonflower Bakery call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Matthew's Ministry for Parents & Caregivers
All-Church Group
Matthew’s Ministry Fellowship offers support and connection for families of individuals with special needs. This ministry provides an active community for families to share joys, challenges, resources and prayer together.
You are welcome to come early for a free community meal in the Foundry from 5:30-6:15 pm. Then from 6:15-7:45 pm, parents can learn, connect with others and grow spiritually through guest speakers and sharing in small groups. Registration for class is not required.
Matthew’s Ministry Fellowship also offers social activities at various times throughout the year.
Childcare is available from 6:15-7:45 pm in Building B at KiDSCOR for ages 6 weeks - 5th grade at no charge. If you are interested in making a reservation for childcare, please do so here. If you need Matthew's Ministry care for individuals with special needs, please email Jennifer Ross.
Future Dates:
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Wednesday, November 13, 2019
Wednesday, December 11, 2019
For questions about Matthew's Ministry for Parents & Caregivers call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Sonflower Ringers
All-Church Program
Our handbell choir for differently-abled individuals is composed of high school and adult members, ages 14 and above. Ringers do not have to be able to read music. Sonflower Ringers use a music scroll system for making their music.
All interested members must meet with Beverly Williamson prior to their first rehearsal. Beverly may be reached by email or home phone: (913) 548-2729.
REHEARSAL TIMES
Sonflower Ringers
- Rehearsals: Sundays, 3:30 - 4:30 pm, Room C050
For questions about Sonflower Ringers call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Scout Troop 11
All-Church Group
Scout Troop 11 is a coed scout troop for individuals with special needs. The troop meets the fourth Thursday of every month at 7 pm.
The objective of the organization is to create an opportunity for young special needs boys and girls to become more mature and independent via the Scouting program. The troop also facilitates social interaction among the parents of special needs kids.
- Boys must be 11 years old or older, up to 25 years old.
- Girls must be 14 years old or older, up to 25 years old.
- New scouts may join at any time.
- Every scout must be accompanied at all times by a parent or adult.
Troop 11 camps twice a year and has special events and family fun nights.
For questions about Scout Troop 11 call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Matthew's Ministry Adult Learning Program
All-Church Program
Matthew's Ministry Sonflower Adult Enrichment is for individuals with special needs. It meets Monday through Friday, 10 am - 3 pm. Participant application required. For more information, please contact Joan Baird.
Prayerfully consider volunteering with Sonflower Adult Enrichment. Join us for one day at the Sonflower Bakery on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays at 12-3 pm. Other opportunities include helping with Art Class on Tuesdays at 10:30 am and 12:30 p.m. or Book Club on Thursdays at 1:00 pm. All activities are in Room B165 (Matthew's Ministry space) in Building B at Resurrection Leawood. Join our fun group and be blessed! Please contact Joan Baird to sign-up or for more information.
For questions about Matthew's Ministry Adult Learning Program call Joan Baird at (913) 232-4110, or email using the form below.
Matthew's Ministry Adult Bible Study
All-Church Class
Students 18 and over join their peers for music and fellowship at the Adult Bible Study's weekly Sunday evening program held during the 5 pm worship service. Following praise and worship, Matthew's Ministry participants meet for an adapted Bible study and fellowship in Room B201.
For questions about Matthew's Ministry Adult Bible Study call Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Evening Care Respite Program
All-Church Program
Evening Care serves special needs teens and adults with a once-a-week respite care program. It is a spirit-filled ministry that offers fellowship and fun for teens and adults with special needs in the Kansas City area. This Ministry is designed to create a larger sense of self for our special needs guests, their care provider(s) and our volunteers.
Our goal is to provide one-on-one respite care for everyone who attends.
Upcoming Activities
Thursday, February 6, 2020
6:30-7 pm: Tone Chime Choir
6:30-8:30 pm: Pictionary, Tone Chime Performance. Maggie Rodgers will do a short rehearsal with Tone Chimes at 6:30 PM and then Tone Chime Choir will play for Evening Care before we begin with Pictionary. After they play, we will start a crowd favorite - Pictionary!
Thursday, February 13, 2020
6:30-7 pm: Tone Chime Choir
6:30-8:30 pm: Valentine's Dance. Maggie Rodgers returns to DJ our annual Valentine's Dance! Come ready to dance the night away!
Thursday, February 20, 2020
6:30-8:30 pm: Memory Books and February Birthdays. We will add photos and stickers to our memory books. It is always fun to look back at all the things we have done together!
- We also celebrate February birthdays! Be sure Ginni, Julie or Twylia is aware if you have a February birthday, so you can join the head of the line for cake!
Thursday, February 27, 2020
6:30-8:30 pm: Ukulele Music with Greg Boyle, Food Pantry Donation. Greg Boyle returns with his ukulele to entertain us with an evening of music and songs. Also, please bring a canned good to donate to the church's food pantry. Thank you!
For questions about Evening Care Respite Program call Ginni Duggan , or email using the form below.
Ann and Jerry Joyner Share the Story of Matthew's Ministry
Upcoming Events
We'd love to have you join us at any of our upcoming Matthew's Ministry events!
Help out with Matthew's Ministry
Angel Care Helper
Angel Care helpers provide one-on-one, individual care for participants, allowing them to join classroom activities or interact solely with Angel Care Providers during the Sunday 10:45 am and 5 pm worship services.
For questions about Angel Care Helper contact Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Sonflower Adult Learning Helpers
Join us for one day at the Sonflower Bakery on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays at 12-3 pm. Other opportunities include helping with Art Class on Tuesdays at 10:15 am or Book Club on Thursdays at 12:30 pm. All activities are in the lower level of Building C at Resurrection Leawood. Join our fun group and be blessed!
For questions about Sonflower Adult Learning Helpers contact Joan Baird at (913) 232-4110, or email using the form below.
Matthew's Ministry Youth Group Helpers
Youth Group helpers provide support for students to engage in fellowship and Sunday school lessons after worship at the 11 Foundry worship service.
For questions about Matthew's Ministry Youth Group Helpers contact Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
Matthew's Ministry Adult Bible Study Helpers
Help students 18 and over learn and grow together during the 5 pm worship service. Following praise and worship, Matthew's Ministry participants meet for an adapted Bible study and fellowship.
For questions about Matthew's Ministry Adult Bible Study Helpers contact Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295, or email using the form below.
The Matthew's Ministry Team
Jennifer Ross
Director of Matthew's Ministry
Jennifer joined the COR staff in April of 2003. Her job is to lead and direct all of the programs under the Matthew’s Ministry label. Jennifer oversees the program at all of our campuses.After graduating UNC-Greensboro, Jennifer did her post graduate work at UAB,... Keep ReadingKelly Sisney
Director of Operations & Community Life
Kelly has been a member of Resurrection since the beginning. Once her and her husband, David became empty nesters, they moved downtown to help start Resurrection Downtown. Kelly was previously a clean comedian for 8 years and though doesn't do shows anymore,... Keep ReadingLauren Cook
Director of Children’s Ministry
Lauren joined the Resurrection staff team in May 2019. She is the Director over all the nursery, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Youth programming at Resurrection Overland Park! Lauren plans and facilitates weekly Sunday School programming, as well as summer VBC and... Keep ReadingJoan Baird
Sonflower Adult Learning Program Coordinator
Joan joined staff in 2012. She coordinates the Sonflower Program for adults with disabilities. Sonflower is a part of Matthew’s Ministry and includes the Sonflower Bakery! It is a day program – Monday through Friday – that includes art, music, gardening, drama,... Keep ReadingMarna Terblanche
Matthew's Ministry Team Lead
I was born and raised in South Africa and moved to the United States with my wonderful husband in December of 2003, shortly after we got married. We have 2 active boys (Ethan 13 and Nic 10) who keep us busy and on our knees. We became members of Church of Resurrection... Keep ReadingJennifer Ross
Director of Matthew's Ministry
Jennifer joined the COR staff in April of 2003. Her job is to lead and direct all of the programs under the Matthew’s Ministry label. Jennifer oversees the program at all of our campuses.
After graduating UNC-Greensboro, Jennifer did her post graduate work at UAB, ECU, and KU. Following her education, Jennifer was a Special Education teacher for 13 years, did interior design, and owned a catering business. On top of this, Jennifer is a board person for Inclusion Connections, a National Ambassador for NDSS, and a dedicated volunteer with KCDSG.
For fun, Jennifer loves to go to the beach, paddle board, kayak, walk, do yoga, read, and spend time with interesting people.
Contact Jennifer Ross at (913) 544-0295
or email using the form below.
Christie Walker
Director of Children's Ministries
Kelly Sisney
Director of Operations & Community Life
Kelly has been a member of Resurrection since the beginning. Once her and her husband, David became empty nesters, they moved downtown to help start Resurrection Downtown. Kelly was previously a clean comedian for 8 years and though doesn't do shows anymore, is certainly collecting a great deal of material! She likes to color!
Contact Kelly Sisney at (816) 979-1335
or email using the form below.
Sarah Elliot
Director of Children and Youth Ministries
Diane Enlow
Director of Children's Ministry
Lauren Cook
Director of Children’s Ministry
Lauren joined the Resurrection staff team in May 2019. She is the Director over all the nursery, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Youth programming at Resurrection Overland Park! Lauren plans and facilitates weekly Sunday School programming, as well as summer VBC and other special events for children and their families.
Lauren graduated from KU with a degree in Elementary Education. After college, she taught in Oklahoma City for two years and then spent one-year teaching in Spring Hill.
For fun, Lauren loves to read. She could read a book a day if she had the time! She also likes to run, bike, hike, watch cooking shows, and try new foods. On top of this, Lauren loves watching the OKC Thunder, Jayhawks, and Sooners with her husband and daughter.
Contact Lauren Cook at (913) 558-9211
or email using the form below.
Joan Baird
Sonflower Adult Learning Program Coordinator
Joan joined staff in 2012. She coordinates the Sonflower Program for adults with disabilities. Sonflower is a part of Matthew’s Ministry and includes the Sonflower Bakery! It is a day program – Monday through Friday – that includes art, music, gardening, drama, and mission/ministry work to benefit other Resurrection ministries.
Joan has a degree from KU and has worked as a graphic designer, administrative assistant, and full-time parent. She discovered a passion for working with individuals with developmental disabilities when she volunteered with Matthew’s Ministry.
Joan enjoys spending time with her husband and two grown daughters. She loves art and gardening – and does both when she has free time!
Contact Joan Baird at (913) 232-4110
or email using the form below.
Marna Terblanche
Matthew's Ministry Team Lead
I was born and raised in South Africa and moved to the United States with my wonderful husband in December of 2003, shortly after we got married. We have 2 active boys (Ethan 13 and Nic 10) who keep us busy and on our knees. We became members of Church of Resurrection in the winter of 2006, and both Ethan and Nic were baptized here at Resurrection.
While still living in South Africa I graduated from Nursing School with qualifications in General Nursing, Community Nursing, Aviation Nursing, Psychiatry and Midwifery. Shortly after graduating I left the nursing profession and started my 17-year career in Pharmaceutical Research. I “retired” from the Pharmaceutical Industry in the summer of 2017 and started to volunteer with the Sonflower Bakery on Wednesday afternoons. I soon discovered that Sonflower was the place where God wanted me to be and gradually increased my time spent with the program.
As a family we enjoy the outdoors. We love camping, spending time on the lake and hanging out with friends. We all volunteer at church on a regular basis in some capacity (KiDSCOR tech team, Safety Team, Matthew’s Ministry) and are excited to call Resurrection our church family.
Contact Marna Terblanche at (913) 220-6817
or email using the form below.