Autism and the Church

Jarvis interviews Stephen Bedard, author, pastor and parent of children with autism.

  • What is autism?
  • Is our identity much more than a disability?
  • What are some ways to support parents at church with autistic children?
  • Some churches strive for perfection, which is different from seeking excellence. How can pursuing perfectionism as a church hinder the church reaching out to autistic children?
  • What are some strategic steps to integrate autistic children in a church context?
  • What is the best way to equip church volunteers to work with children with autism, so we are not being reactionary?
  • How should parents talk to their children about autism?
  • What are some of the misconceptions regarding autism?
  • How should we respond to parents who insist that God will heal their child of autism in this life?
  • How should one respond to parents who deny that their child has autism?
  • For the parents, is there a grief attached to autism?
  • Can you share words of hope for parents with autistic children?