Celebrating Shanna & Mustard Seed's History

"When I was in 2nd grade. Ms. Kuperus had assigned me a role in worship. I was in the hall preparing for that roll and I was, needless to say, incredibly nervous. I don’t know how, but I assume that Ms. Pargellis was able to sense my nervousness. And I have never forgotten what she said to me. She looked at me and said 'Ashley, I know you. And I know you can do this.'

I can’t remember the role. I can’t remember if I did well in that role. But I do remember those words, that gentle voice, that calm reassuring demeanor—that I could do it. What I learned at Mustard Seed, I carry with me to this day. The words of Ms. Pargellis are with me right now. I hope you can’t sense my anxiety when speaking to you today. Because of that simple reminder from Ms. Pargellis over 20 years ago, and because before I even knew how important it was to know myself, this community knew me, because of that I now know me and I now know I can do this. At Mustard Seed, because of Shanna, I know I am seen, I know I am heard, and I know that so much is possible for me—for my classmates and for so many.

Working at Mustard Seed, I’ve heard similar stories from my co-workers. 'Shanna believed that I could do it, and I was able to do it.' Can you imagine how many hundreds of people, students, teachers, staff members— maybe even strangers on the street—have learned that lesson and have heard those words from Shanna? And just think how that has gone on to shape so many lives.

Because of Shanna, because of Mustard Seed, I am the person I am today. And this is truly the gift that Shanna has given all of us. For this and for so much more we are grateful."