The world of special needs is filled with statistics: in the United States, about 17 percent of children have a diagnosed developmental disability, and 14 percent of public school students receive special education services.

But behind these statistics are stories—stories of children struggling to fit into a world that wasn't designed for them, and stories of parents giving everything they have to advocate for their children. Most of these parents didn't choose this path; they were thrust upon it unknowing, unprepared, and often overwhelmed. They may struggle to talk about their experiences in relatable ways with family, friends, and even God.

Special Grace is a collection of 127 prayers for all aspects of life for families with special needs. Here are prayers for family life, school, and church; prayers for an initial diagnosis, for the first day of school, and for celebrating a milestone. Each section is set off by a reflective essay from Evans's own family life. Filled with humor and wisdom, these prayers and reflections will help families process their experiences together and offer them to God with hope and simple trust.

In moments when the cries of your heart leave you speechless, Special Grace provides words you can bring before your Father in heaven.



Elrena Evans (MFA, Penn State) is an author, an editor, a mother, a wife, a dancer, and a stand-up comedian. Her books When I Go to Church, I Belong and Special Grace: Prayers and Reflections for Families with Special Needs are both inspired by her experience as a mom of children with special needs. Elrena lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and their five children. She doesn't have a favorite ice cream flavor because she loves (almost) all of them.



Foreword: Before You Begin . . . by Joni Eareckson Tada

Introduction



1. Beginnings

The Diagnosis

Prayers



2. Family Life

The Do-Over

Prayers



3. School

The Substitute Teacher Problem

Prayers



4. Public Life

Sunday Morning Minecraft

Prayers



5. Changes

Jumping Out the Window

Prayers



6. Seasons of the Year

The Corn Maze

Prayers



7. Thanksgivings

Harry Potter Goes to Church

Prayers



Other Prayers

Acknowledgments

List of Prayers