April 3, 2014
10 Ways to Celebrate Autism Awareness Month

- Identify those children on the Autism Spectrum who have not been prepared to receive the sacraments. Welcome them into programs.
- Use the Parish Bulletin to educate the community about Autism. You will help your faith community see the child and better understand the Spectrum.
- Ask a child who has Autism to write about why he/she loves God. Publish it in the bulletin!
- Ask a catechist to tell why working with a child who has Autism is so rewarding. Share it in the bulletin.
- Advertise for catechists who have special ed. teaching skills.
- Welcome all catechists who have a loving heart and want to share their faith with a child on the Spectrum.
- 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.
- 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!
- Organize a respite program.
- Remember that we are all created in the image of God. Even though not one of us is perfect, we are perfectly created!