August 10, 2023 REL Topic- Inclusion, REL PD - Catechist, REL PD - Leaders
By: Guest Blogger
According to a March 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of every 36 children in the United States are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder that sometimes affects social communication and interaction, behavior patterns, language, and cognition. Our diverse and worldwide Catholic Church is made up of many adults and children with special needs and Autism. The National Catholic Partnership on Disability recommends that personalized and individualized attention and accommodations and diverse resources be available for those with special needs to ensure that all persons with ASD can meaningfully participate in the Church. In this article, you’ll read a personal account of a faith journey from the perspective of a Catholic adult on the Autism spectrum, and the ways that her faith has grown through her study of faith and lived experience. Plus, you’ll have the chance to register for a 2-Part Masterclass, Helping Special Needs and Autistic Students in Catechesis presented by Father Matthew Schneider. The “Autistic Priest” and Visiting Assistant Professor of Theology at Belmont Abby College.
An Ongoing, Personal Faith Journey
One’s journey of faith is always ongoing. Our faith grows, expands, and changes as we experience life and encounter God and others in different ways. I was diagnosed with Aspergers at a young age, and I remember having many struggles and still do. I had a sense of God, but I didn't really think about my faith or religion often as a child. I had a desire to read the entire Bible when I was twelve, and I did. I memorized a lot of Scripture and, although I had some favorite parts such as the Gospels—the Song of Songs, and others—at that time, I didn't understand it, although I thought I did.
