What is the Mustard Seed?
The Mustard Seed, Inc. was created to meet the spiritual, physical, emotional and intellectual needs of mentally challenged adults by providing a loving and protected Christian community and meaningful activities allowing the residents to fulfill the potential God created within them.
Where does funding come from?
The Mustard Seed is a registered nonprofit, §501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, funded solely through donors. The Mustard Seed receives no government funding.
What all is on the Mustard Seed campus?
Starting with the Bells of Faith Hand bell Choir, the Mustard Seed has grown to include two group homes, a swimming pool, a multi-purpose activity center, a ceramics studio and workshop on nearly 8 acres in Brandon, Mississippi.
How many clients participate in the Mustard Seed's programs?
41
How old are the "Seedsters"?
21-66
When did the Mustard Seed begin?
1981
Who founded the Mustard Seed?
The founding members were parents of mentally challenged adults and others who saw the need for a Christ-centered ministry in the community. Prior to the Mustard Seed’s inception in 1981, many parents and guardians of mentally challenged adults had few options for the care of their loved ones. These visionaries knew that their special persons had great potential for growth and the right to their own life experiences.
When did the Bells of Faith Hand Bell Choir begin?
1981
What exactly does the Bells of Faith hand bell choir do?
The bell choir offers an opportunity for the ringers to share their faith through leading in worship, to educate listeners about their abilities rather than disabilities, and to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. The choir is led by trained musicians and music therapists and plays at churches, civic, and community gatherings.
Is there a fee for the Bells of Faith to perform?
No there is no fee for the bell choir to perform; however, many churches generously give a love donation to cover the cost of transportation to the Mustard Seed in honor of the bells.
What if I am interested in booking the Bell Choir?
e-mail mandy@mustardseedinc.org or call 992-3556. Availability can be limited during the Christmas Holidays, so many organizations, churches, etc. book early. The bell choir mostly performs in the Central MS Regional area but can travel depending on the circumstance. The Bell choir can perform anywhere from 3 songs to an hour. Daytime performances are limited. If you are interested in booking the bells please keep in mind that evening and weekend performances are encouraged.
When were the group homes started?
The first group home opened in 1986
What are the group homes like?
14 residents live in the group homes (7 men in the men's group home, and 7 women in the women's group home). Within the households Seedsters share experiences and responsibilities in a family-like atmosphere with their roommates, housemates, and group home parents. The group homes are closed for certain periods throughout the year so that our Seedsters can spend time with their families. A new women's group home at the Mustard Seed is currently under construction and set to open in the Fall of 2010.
Do all of the "Seedsters" live at the Mustard Seed?
No. Only 14 Seedsters reside in our group homes. All of our Seedsters (both day and residential) participate in our day program (Monday-Friday). They thrive on socialization with our community neighbors. They engage daily in various activities in the surrounding communities and on the Mustard Seed Campus.
| Who do I talk to if I have questions about The Mustard Seed?
Please call 992-3556 and ask for Executive Director, Kit Barksdale
When did the ceramics workshop center begin?
Our workshop program began in the storage room of the group home on September 1, 1989, with a contract to pour ceramic green ware for Charter Hospital’s art therapy program.
Where did the name THE MUSTARD SEED come from?
The name of the Mustard Seed comes directly from the Bible. Matthew 17:20 says that “if ye have faith even as small as a grain of Mustard Seed, you will say to this mountain, move from here to there, and it will move and nothing will be impossible to you.”
How do I volunteer?
It is easy to volunteer, just fill out our online volunteer application
What volunteer needs does the Mustard Seed have?
Our volunteers perform duties that enhance the program and edify our clients. For a detailed list, click here
I do not have the time to volunteer, but I would like to give money. How can I give a monetary donation?
Endowment Campaign, Annual Giving, Gifts of Securities, Estate Bequests, Charitable Trusts. You can also donate online by clicking here. You are welcome to see a physical copy of our expense report, published in our Branches Newsletter
Is there a Gift Shop on campus?
Yes. It’s located in the first building on your right as you pull into the Mustard Seed. Gift Shop
What are the Gift Shop hours?
The hours of operation are 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Is there anywhere else besides the gift shop where I can purchase the ceramics?
Ceramics are available for sale on the Mustard Seed website as well as at the following locations:
Wired Espresso Cafe
115 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39201
(601) 500-7800
Citizens National Bank
102 N Place Drive
Madison, MS 39110
(601) 992-0025
One Blu Wall Gallery
2906 N State St # 207
Jackson, MS
(601) 713-1224
Website
If I buy something in the gift shop, where does that money go?
Money collected from the purchases funds the art program.
Can I get a tour of the Mustard Seed?
Sure! Call (601) 992-3556 to set one up.
Do you have an open house?
Once a year we open our doors to the masses, our next open house will be Saturday, December 4, 2010. The hand bell choir will perform, the parents will host a bake sale
Do Mustard Seed ornaments really get sent to Washington DC?
Yes. Our ornaments adorn the Mississippi Tree along the Pathway of Peace that leads to the National Christmas Tree.
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