The first time I met Gretchen was Easter weekend three years ago. I was at the desk in the front entrance when an almost four-year-old Gretchen, gaining strength to walk, came right into our facility. She flashed her big smile and greeted me for the first time. Her father followed and I struck up a conversation with him. They were visiting and Gretchen needed a sensory break from the Easter production, so they came out for a walk. We had just launched a special needs ministry for children one week earlier. Gretchen seemed right at home as she watched the fish swim in the lobby aquarium. She smiled and put her hands on the glass. 

Gretchen is diagnosed with a rare condition known as PURA syndrome. Fewer than 400 individuals have this diagnosis. Her family of six has attended our church ever since that first visit in 2017. It has been amazing to watch Gretchen grow and develop. She is an independent walker now and our team had the pleasure of seeing every step of her progression. 

Just as the children coming into our ministry have developed, our special needs ministry has grown and developed into many areas of Victory Tulsa. This week is a marked moment. Gretchen, who first visited our church for the annual Easter production, along with her mom are highlighted characters this year. Our Easter and Christmas productions are well known for being high quality. They draw thousands of people each year.

This year came with much adversity as COVID-19 put restrictions on churches gathering this Easter season. The normally live production was quickly pre-recorded for online viewing and for drive-in services. This has brought the production into a bigger spotlight than before. Because Victory Tulsa’s annual productions are such a trademark of the ministry, being a part of a production symbolizes belonging in our church. No matter who you are or how you are different, you belong. 

What a privilege it is to be a part of a church that welcomes and supports diversity. My hope is to see all churches embrace this model just as Jesus said, “let them come to Me.” 

Happy Easter! Amy

Click here to watch Victory Tulsa’s full Easter production: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=5&v=uYAUM6A33Wk