Flourishing in God’s time

When Mia, a child with selective mutism,* uttered the single word “garden” to her school chaplain, Bec, it was more than just a word. It was a profound breakthrough.

But none of this would have happened if Bec hadn’t followed a prompting in her heart. 

For years, Bec had been a dedicated teacher, seeking a new role that would allow her to care for her family, including a child with additional needs, and continue working with young people. She prayed for direction.

God’s answer came through an unexpected suggestion from friends: chaplaincy.

“I didn’t even know what that was,” Bec recalls, but soon discovered it was a perfect fit. 

In 2024, a local role came to Bec’s attention at a School for Specific Purposes (SSP) for students with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities.

The school were thrilled when Bec approached them. Everything was green lit for her to begin. Except for one, very green, obstacle … the once-thriving and now dead school garden. They asked Bec to take it on.

With very minimal gardening experience, Bec was initially overwhelmed. 

“Despite my flaws, God gave me everything I needed,” says Bec.

Through a staff connection, a volunteer gardening expert offered help. 18 months later, the garden is thriving!

Like the process of gardening itself, getting to know the students took time. Bec gradually witnessed amazing signs of growth in some students.

Students like Mia*.

A reserved girl, Mia rarely raised her head or interacted with others in the playground. 

But Mia’s teacher knew she enjoyed being outdoors and asked Bec if she could join one of the two gardening groups.

On entering the garden, Bec witnessed Mia begin to relax. Over time, Mia not only began to lift her head, her whole face “lit up.”

She became absorbed in the routines of gardening, planting seeds, watering and harvesting vegetables.

But one day, Mia did something that no one could have anticipated. She spoke. 

“She said her teacher’s name …. And then pointed to the garden beds. I think she said ‘garden’,” recalls Bec.

Even the seemingly smallest breakthroughs can make a massive difference in the lives of young people. Through your support and Bec’s faithful following of God’s calling, young people like Mia are discovering life. Could God be calling you or someone you know to ministry? Visit startchaplaincy.com to find out more today. 

*Mia is a pseudonym to protect the child’s identity.