Let’s be honest: if you’ve ever walked the campus of Spring Valley Community Church during the week, you’ve probably wondered—Why on earth do we run a food bank?
It’s a fair question.
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As the holiday season unfurls its magic and warmth, the importance of community and connection becomes palpable. Amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer, one place that stands as a beacon of solace and togetherness is the church. Beyond its spiritual significance, belonging to a church during the holidays offers a myriad of profound benefits that extend far beyond the pews.
If you’ve been searching for a neurodiverse-friendly church near you—a place where every person, regardless of ability, is fully welcomed—you’re not alone. Many families long for a faith community where their loved ones can belong, serve, and thrive without being separated or sidelined. At Spring Valley Church, we are learning how to be that kind of community: an inclusive church for neurodiverse individuals and families, where every believer is treated as a vital part of the Body of Christ and encouraged to use their God-given gifts to bless others.
In today’s world, it can feel like every difference is a dividing line. Economic status, skin color, education level, political party, age, ability—all too often, these become barriers that keep us apart. We live in a culture where hostility seems to be the default posture and suspicion often replaces trust.
But in the church—something remarkable happens.
Mark 2:27 – “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”
In just one sentence, Jesus reframes a centuries-old religious tradition. The Sabbath, with all its rules and regulations, was never meant to be a burden. It was meant to be a gift. A delight. A restorative rhythm for a weary people. But somewhere along the way, the structure became more important than the soul it was built to support.
This same tension exists today—not just in how we treat the Sabbath, but in how we do church.