April 3, 2014

10 Ways to Celebrate Autism Awareness Month

  1.  Identify those children on the Autism Spectrum who have not been prepared to receive the sacraments.  Welcome them into programs.
  2.  Use the Parish Bulletin to educate the community about Autism. You will help your faith community see the child and better understand the Spectrum.
  3. Ask a child who has Autism to write about why he/she  loves  God.  Publish it in the bulletin!
  4.  Ask a catechist to tell why working with a child who has Autism is so rewarding.  Share it in the bulletin.
  5.  Advertise for catechists who have special ed. teaching skills.
  6. Welcome all catechists who have a loving heart and want to share their faith with a child on the Spectrum.
  7. Ask the pastor to include a petition as part of the Universal Prayer during the month of April. Example: That children with Autism and their families will be welcomed and accepted as part of our church community, we pray to the Lord.
  8. Ask the pastor if he would like to begin a monthly Sunday Liturgy for children who have special needs.  Watch the video at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/deaconsbench/2014/04/must-see-special-mass-for-kids-with-autism/.  It might inspire you to advocate for a special monthly liturgy in your parish!
  9.  Organize a respite program. 
  10. Remember that we are all created in the image of God.  Even though not one of us is perfect, we are perfectly created!