Publication Date
Spring 4-26-2024
School
School of Divinity
Major
Religious Studies
Keywords
autism, religion, disability, church, theology
Disciplines
Christianity | Disability Studies | Practical Theology
Recommended Citation
Cook, Kaitlyn, "Autism and the Body of Christ: Understanding, Accommodating, and Accepting Autistic Believers in the Church" (2024). Senior Honors Theses. 1393.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/1393
Abstract
Autism is a neurotype that causes a different set of strengths and weaknesses and thus should be embraced and accommodated within the church. Not only are autistic believers able to grasp Christian concepts, but they also have different perspectives and skills that can be instrumental in building up the church. Promoting a correct view of autism and accommodating neurodiversity within the church will allow autistic believers to follow God’s command to be part of a body and build up the church. The church can employ several strategies to create an accessible environment for believers on the spectrum, including creating sensory-safe spaces and cultivating informed leadership. This thesis will educate the church on autism and equip leaders and church members to welcome autistic believers into their communities.
