New Voice of Hope: Shawn Thornton Joins Joni’s Devotionals

AGOURA HILLS, California, January 05, 2025 – Every morning, each of us needs a little grace to get going whether we live with disability or not. That’s why for years, Joni Eareckson Tada has delivered daily, faith-filled devotionals to her readers via email and on the web, offering hope through hardship by sharing the lessons she’s learned from nearly 60 years of following Jesus in her wheelchair.  

The need for hope is real, especially for the more than 1.3 billion disabled people worldwide.  

That’s why Joni and Friends is proud to announce that Joni’s daily devotional series is growing in 2026 to include a weekly message from Shawn Thornton, President of Joni and Friends. Shawn will be sharing his deep perspective on topics like faith, suffering, perseverance and becoming more like Christ… even when life hurts.  

An ordained pastor who was raised by a mother with a traumatic brain injury, Shawn knows that this life comes with suffering, but he also knows that Jesus meets us whenever and wherever we need Him.  

Shawn’s voice will be a welcome addition to Joni’s timeless wisdom. With a pastor’s heart and personal experience with a disabled mother, Shawn has decades of experience leading thriving congregations and building a robust special needs ministry that serves as a model for churches across the country. 

The team at Joni and Friends prays that this expanded devotional series will bless the hearts of all who read it. 

About Joni and Friends: For more than 40 years, Joni and Friends has provided the hope of the Gospel and practical care to people living with disability around the globe. Ministry programs include Joni’s House, Wheels for the World™, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training. Joni and Friends also delivers daily inspirational media through radio programs and podcasts.

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