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Autism and Religion

Muckworm
over 11 years ago

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!

Parents
  • over 11 years ago

    Sorry to hear things are not working out as you would like to hope.

    I too have experienced a similar disappointment  from the church for my 18 year old son. He has attended the same church all his life and the church based youth group assoicated with it since he was 5.

    His meltdowns aren't pretty - he lashes out. Whilst some people say they care they really don't understand why he acts like he does. They have stopped him attending the youth group and really aren't demonstrating unconditional love like a true Christian would.

    I think the crux  is they really don't understand autism. If when he had meltdowns he just cried in the corner I am sure they would be far more sympathetic.

    We also think that there are a lot of people who are in church thinking they are doing the right thing, but when it comes to the hard stuff they shy away.

    There are some really kind people in the church, but you have to find the genuine ones. Maybe there are some small group activities you can join in with to get tho know some popel better.

    Autism is complex and Joe Public doesn't always get it. It sounds like your vicar is one of those. He certainly lacks tact.

Reply
  • over 11 years ago

    Sorry to hear things are not working out as you would like to hope.

    I too have experienced a similar disappointment  from the church for my 18 year old son. He has attended the same church all his life and the church based youth group assoicated with it since he was 5.

    His meltdowns aren't pretty - he lashes out. Whilst some people say they care they really don't understand why he acts like he does. They have stopped him attending the youth group and really aren't demonstrating unconditional love like a true Christian would.

    I think the crux  is they really don't understand autism. If when he had meltdowns he just cried in the corner I am sure they would be far more sympathetic.

    We also think that there are a lot of people who are in church thinking they are doing the right thing, but when it comes to the hard stuff they shy away.

    There are some really kind people in the church, but you have to find the genuine ones. Maybe there are some small group activities you can join in with to get tho know some popel better.

    Autism is complex and Joe Public doesn't always get it. It sounds like your vicar is one of those. He certainly lacks tact.

Children
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