In his teenage years, when Don Anderson began to volunteer with individuals who had disabilities, he discovered a lifelong mission. As he continued to work in group homes prior to his career as a pastor, he came to realize that the church community was lacking involvement in the lives of the developmentally disabled. It took two years of unsuccessful attempts and networking before he finally found a group of like-minded people at an interchurch workshop who shared his goal.
From these humble beginnings sprang Christ for People with Developmental Disabilities, a nonprofit that has brought fellowship for almost 36 years to those with a wide range of disabilities. The Tuesday night services at Wayzata Evangelical Free Church typically include praise and worship, prayer time and Bible lessons, although Anderson says that “music is probably the most important part” for the parishioners, who clap, sing and dance along.
The service is meant to promote a community for adults to grow in faith and fellowship. Anderson invites local volunteers to share “whatever talents and gifts they have,” he says, whether that’s music, Bible lessons or simply helping serve refreshments.
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Services are held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. most Tuesdays.Wayzata
Evangelical Free Church,
705 County Road 101 N.
