Starlight Ministries

06/03/2026

Jessica, a recent graduate in Occupational Therapy was a wonderful addition to the Starlight team and made a lasting impact during her time with us while working on her capstone project. Her bright personality, compassion for those who are grieving, and depth of knowledge will take her far. We wish Jessica all the best on her next adventure!

In her own words:



This capstone project has been incredibly rewarding. I gained an abundance of knowledge on grief and grew in my own grief journey along the way.



My capstone project involved learning a lot about grief, how it affects daily occupations (the things you need and want to do every day), and putting together a lot of resources on the topic. Resources included those that Starlight could use for participants, volunteers, the community, etc. I also created resources, including a recorded presentation, for future OT practitioners that provided education on grief and the importance of them knowing the basics. Because grief is not just death-related loss but can also be caused by non-death losses, we as OTs will have clients/patients experiencing some form of grief.



It was an honor learning from the Starlight staff, and I'll greatly miss them. They are truly a light in the community and do an amazing job showing the Hope in Jesus to everyone.

06/02/2026

Calling all walkers...Grief Strides is BACK! Join us for 30 minutes of leisurely walking and 30 minutes of conversation at Hager Park (8134 28th Ave in Jenison) No registration required.

Begins June 4th, every other Thursday at 10am.

06/01/2026

FACILITATOR SPOTLIGHT: Meet Jennifer!

In her words:

"I have been a facilitator for 4 years at Starlight Ministries, but that is not how my involvement started. My husband Roger died from brain cancer in December of 2008. My three children were one of the first participants when Starlight opened their doors. It gave me great comfort knowing they would be with other kids their own age who had lost a loved one. They were guided and supported with loving caring facilitators at a Christian ministry."

After they completed their time, I continued to stay connected with Starlight by volunteering with various opportunities. I facilitate one of the high school groups. Even though high schoolers are not quick to share their feelings, I do believe they are hearing the message of "Where Hope Outshines Grief" and are learning how to navigate their grief journey. Starlight is a wonderful ministry and I highly encourage anyone who is thinking about volunteering to reach out and find out how you can help be a light."

05/28/2026

Volunteers needed for our Hope and Healing Gardens! Our goal is to provide our guests with a beautiful, peaceful, and tidy experience as they enjoy the gardens.

Click the sign up below to view available time slots.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C44A8A92AA7F49-63234332-hope?fbclid=IwY2xjawSClBFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEwZzdHajBZOU5FWnFJSVlnc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHnef4XdKlkW59RR2aE1SSfnCgWc_kLWTjYPWxn3LXz0telUl3aKJgqy7ET6q_aem_au1atsg_Qi_arvWG7Wjj7A #/

05/26/2026

05/21/2026

Registration closes tomorrow for our Summer Women’s Book Study – "Widows of the Bible"

You are invited to join other women grieving a death on Tuesday mornings from 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. for 5-weeks studying and discussing the book – Widows of the Bible by Pam Nelson. The group meets at Covenant Community Church.

The book will be provided to you at no cost.

Click the link to register: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Th7mvfMYjUO6cleBI0US_MSZ-frFxFhCoXaNwymMNh1UNlozVkJURUFVNldNU09aOUkzNVFET0NVQSQlQCN0PWcu&route=shorturl

05/20/2026

Sending a big THANK YOU to Jenison Christian for volunteering and the hard work it took to spruce up our space for summer. 🌟😊

05/19/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that one of the Starlight facilitators, Wendy Hallgren, died unexpectedly in a car accident on Wednesday, May 13.

For the past 2 years, Wendy facilitated a number of our children’s support groups. Her energy and creativity were always appreciated. She cared deeply about children who were grieving the death of a loved one. Her own personal grief journey fueled her desire to be a part of Starlight’s ministry.

As shared in her obituary:

"Wendy’s life was framed by joy. Joy in raising her family and spending time with her grandchildren. Joy in always putting others first. Joy in creativity. Joy in animatedly sharing stories from her life that were so hilarious they were almost unbelievable. Joy in exploring deep thought and studying scripture. And joy found in obedience to God.

Wendy recently wrote in her daily devotional journal, “How we love shows how we know Him.” Wendy loved fiercely with her whole heart; she didn’t leave love unexpressed. She did the hard things. She offered grace when judgement and pettiness came cheaper. Above all she was a faithful servant to Jesus; a wife, mother and grandmother who loved well; and a cherished confidant who will never be replaced."

During times like these, we are reminded of the comfort and hope found in God’s presence and Christ’s resurrection. We embrace God’s promise in scripture that assures us “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit”. While we mourn deeply, we also pray for peace, strength, and comfort for Wendy’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.