Autism in Christ's Church

Autism is a spectrum disorder with unique and varied experiences for each individual affected. Conversion to Jesus Christ and membership in His church are similarly diverse journeys. This book navigates this nuance by sharing the stories of thirty individuals with autism and their families' experiences with Jesus Christ in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From a mother with a child on the spectrum questioning whether the church is worth attending in the face of judgment from ward members and a child who can't sit through sacrament meeting to a community that gathers around a young man with autism to support him as he returns from his mission, these accounts illustrate the challenge and heartbreak as well as the strength and success individuals with autism and their families, wards, and communities experience as they participate in Christ's church and seek their Savior. More than interesting stories, this book can serve as an inspiration and a tool as you and those you love navigate the complexities of autism in the church. To assist in this process, each account concludes with a note from the authors to highlight key takeaways and put forth strategies to deal with problems presented, and the book ends with an index, cross-referencing ideas from throughout the book. As you read, seek the guidance of the Holy Ghost to find your own story in these varied accounts. Read more