Autism and Religion

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
  • Scorpion I agree, in that one of the kindest, nicest people I know would not call herself a Christian, and I do know Christians who are at best "difficult".

    There are no easy answers to Muckworm's problem. There are Churches which are very accepting of all-comers, and there are others which function merely as social clubs, and it sounds as though Muckworm has been going to one of these. Have you tried any churches like New Frontiers?

    God doesn't give up on us if we don't go to Church, but being with other Christians helps to keep our faith alive and so I hope you won't give up your search.

Reply
  • Scorpion I agree, in that one of the kindest, nicest people I know would not call herself a Christian, and I do know Christians who are at best "difficult".

    There are no easy answers to Muckworm's problem. There are Churches which are very accepting of all-comers, and there are others which function merely as social clubs, and it sounds as though Muckworm has been going to one of these. Have you tried any churches like New Frontiers?

    God doesn't give up on us if we don't go to Church, but being with other Christians helps to keep our faith alive and so I hope you won't give up your search.

Children