Andrea (Douglas) Mercier '06

Oliver's Extraordinary Friend

Trinity alumna Andrea (Douglas) Mercier ‘06 has written a children’s book in honor of her son, Gabriel, who has severe autism. The author’s hope for Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend is that the book will “bring awareness, educate children through the power of story, and offer families an opportunity for discussions about autism.”

While at Trinity, Andrea met her husband, Michael Mercier ‘05, who has been a great support to Andrea through the entire process of writing Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend. Michael majored in Theology and Andrea majored in Ministry Leadership. After graduating from Trinity, Andrea received a full-tuition scholarship at Northern Seminary as a Kern Scholar, and they both earned a Masters of Divinity from Northern Seminary. Michael later went on to earn a second Masters in Life Coaching and Mentoring from Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary. Currently, Michael serves as a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain and as a Qualified Behavioral Health Professional for Carle Health, and Andrea is the Associate of Connections at Chillicothe Christian Church. Their only son, Gabriel, is one of their greatest joys in life.

When remembering her time at Trinity, Andrea looks favorably upon her experience as a Resident Assistant (RA). She appreciated caring for and connecting with the members of her residence hall floor. Andrea also recalls attending diverse churches in Chicago as an impactful experience for her, as someone who grew up in a small town. She states that being a part of that community allowed her to “see the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth.”

Receiving a Christian liberal arts education has influenced Andrea’s life. One of the greatest benefits of attending Trinity for her was “learning from professors who loved Jesus and helped their students understand His mission more.” Even by writing a children’s book in honor of her son, Andrea carries on what she has learned at the College. She is making a difference, not only in her current role at the Chillicothe Christian Church, but also as a forthcoming children’s book author.

The Mercier couple’s love for Christ was nurtured in them throughout their journeys at Trinity, and now they are sharing that love with the world. Andrea hopes that by writing and publishing Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend she can “help neurotypical kids feel more comfortable around kids who are on the autism spectrum.” Inclusivity and an appreciation of diversity go a long way in promoting a safe and loving “Kingdom of God on Earth.” Spreading awareness is key to breaking down barriers, and Andrea is doing just that through her children’s book in honor of the Mercier couple’s beloved son, Gabriel.

To get your copy of Oliver’s Extraordinary Friend, please visit the story linked here.

To learn more about this story, please visit the Facebook page linked here.

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