Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi Folks - I have a situation I'd like to share with you and comment on if you think it would be helpful. I would appreciate some feedback.
I believe in God and have, over the years, as someone living with a diagnosed ASD tried to attend church. I always thought it would be a way to maybe meet people and make friends because I am very isolated.
I find the whole thing hard because it is noisy and I can't always cope with that or the people (I hate being touched) and if I'm having a bad day and know I'm heading for meltdown (like today) I stay away so it doesn't happen there because they wouldn't understand. Which is where my question comes in -
I spoke to the Vicar at my church and told him I was autistic and would find some 'adjustments' useful (e.g. being able to sit at the back so I can move around if I need to, or not to go forward for things like communion which I don't get really, or not to be part of a small group). He seemed to think that was ok but said my admission to being autistic explained why I was a bit weird (not helpful). Most people know I have autism there.
I thought Christians were supposed to be accepting and loving and stuff but no-one speaks to me, offers any hand in friendship or shows any respect for my condition.
Has anyone experienced anything similar and how did you cope with it (other than staying away which is what I do now)?
Any good stories about going to church or Mosque or other place of worship? How have others treated you because of being autistic or maybe you have a child who is autistic - how was it?
I'm trying to work some of this stuff out and would appreciate comments.
Thanks Everyone!
Hello. I see this is eleven years ago, well, if you happen to come back I hope my reply helps in some way.
I feel for you I really do. You shouldn't have to stay away but I understand why when there's so many closed minded individuals out there who judge and don't understand. A lot of the problem is people don't even try to understand, if they did, they would see we are trying hard to fit in to this mad old world of ours.
What I would suggest is to keep going and make adjustments for yourself. Sit at the back if you want to. When I used to go to church I always sat at the back, that way if I got overwhelmed for whatever reason I could quickly nip out for some air and return when I felt better. This worked for me and reduced anxiety.
I also kept an anxiety squeeze ball on me which I still use now when I go shopping. Just having it on me reduces my anxious thoughts and feelings.
It might also be beneficial to get yourself an autism identity badge or bracelet. Something that clearly expresses you have autism. Though this can be a little unnerving to wear the first couple of times I have actually been better understood by people and they're more willing to adjust and help when they see it.
I hope this helps mate. Take care and look after yourself.
Regards, Teknoid.
Oh the old favourite. Grandmother was lapsed Catholic converted church of Scotland. other Grandmother Plymouth Brethren. She was Pentecostal like the rest of the family but they weren't you know weird enough so she went all in with the Brethren and tried to ram it down my throat as a kid.
For a Christian and i use that in the loosest possible manner she was a self righteous evil cow. But then again the ones who think they have god on their side are usually the worst aren't they?
Although not a religious group and in fact religion is a banned topic along with politics. I found Freemasons to be the most welcoming and accepting group of people who engage in 'ritual'.
You believe in god? Great, worship your god as you see fit not the way the church tells you too. If as many Christians say god is everywhere then they (god) are not going to care if you worship them in a church a bedroom or a skip.