236. Supporting Families with Autism in Your Church, with David Quel

Spiritual Life and Leadership

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How can our churches reach out to families with autistic members in such a way that the Gospel is good news for them? And how might we need to adapt the way we do church in order to be good news for those with autism in their families?
Dr. David Quel, adjunct professor at Wesley Theological Seminary--and father to three autistic sons--reveals strategies for creating a welcoming environment in our churches for families with autistic members, how to adapt our ministries to meet their needs, and the emotional and spiritual journey of parenting autistic children.
THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• David Quel shares how he and his wife discovered that not just one, but all three of his sons were autistic.
• It was difficult for David Quel and his wife to find the kind of family and church support they needed as a family with three non-high-functioning autistic children.
• David Quel underscores the essential need for emotional, spiritual, mental, and compassionate awareness of autism in church ministry.
• David Quel shares a story about his church setting up a sensory room designed specifically for children with autism.
• This sensory room included items like big fluffy pillows, beanbags, and sensory toys to ensure children's safety.
• David Quel discusses challenges and solutions in creating worship services tailored for children with autism.
• Traditional formats like responsive readings and long sermons are challenging for children with autism.
• David Quel highlights the need for music that is more upbeat to engage children with autism compared to traditional hymns.
• Efforts by David’s church to create separate worship services showed significant commitment but also revealed the struggle to let go of traditional practices.
• David Quel recommends the book Autism and Your Church by Barbara J. Newman for further guidance.
• Interviewing families to understand their specific needs and triggers is crucial to contextual ministry.
• Identifying willing volunteers with relevant experience or a willingness to learn can make a significant difference when adapting your church ministry to families with autism.
• David Quel emphasizes seeing individuals with autism as God’s creations, deserving of love and support.
• Steps churches can take to support families with autism:
  • Set up sensory rooms
  • Tailor specialized worship services
  • Interview and understand families with autism
  • Identify and train volunteers
  • Promote inclusivity

RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:

• BeADisciple.com
  • Autism and the Church Part 1
  • Autism and the Church Part 2
• Wesley Theological Seminary
• Books mentioned:
  • Autism and Your Church, by Barbara J. Newman
• Related Episodes:
  • Tackling Adaptive Challenges in Your Church, with Angie Ward
  • Exploring New Forms of Church, with Shannon Kiser

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