The Church Community's Role in Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Their Families
This presentation explores the significant role of church communities in supporting families with neurodivergent children, emphasizing compassion, understanding, and practical assistance. Drawing from biblical verses, it highlights the importance of caring for the vulnerable and marginalized, mirroring love and service to others as a reflection of one's faith. The authors, directors at the Department of Family Ministries, offer insights and guidance on how churches can positively impact the lives of neurodivergent individuals and their families.
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A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN Presented by: (add presenter s name here) Written by: Willie Oliver, PhD, CFLE and Elaine Oliver, PhD(c), LCPC, CFLE are Directors of the Department of Family Ministries at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists World Headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.
BIBLE TEXT Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN Jeremiah 1:5 NKJV
BIBLE TEXT For you formed my inward parts; you covered me in my mother s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN well.
BIBLE TEXT Then the King will say to those on His right hand, Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN prison and you came to Me.
BIBLE TEXT And the King will answer and say to them, Assuredly I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me. Matthew 25:40 NKJV A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
BIBLE TEXT Then He will also say to those on the left hand, Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
BIBLE TEXT Then they also will answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You? Then He will answer them, saying, Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me. And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE This seminar explores the multifaceted ways in which church communities can provide comprehensive support to parents of neurodivergent children. We will examine the potential benefits of a nurturing spiritual environment and consider practical strategies for creating inclusive spaces. Discuss the importance of education, awareness, acceptance, and accommodation in fostering a supportive church community. Create a sense of commitment in each participant to ensure that families with neurodivergent children feel supported and feel welcome in the church community. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
DEFINITION Neurodiversity encompasses a range of conditions such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Dyslexia, and other various behavioral disorders, as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). There is a spectrum of neurodivergent experiences, and a need exists to address the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding them. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
DEFINITION Neurodivergence is a multifaceted concept encompassing various neurological conditions and differences that deviate from neurotypical or typical neurological functioning. It is crucial to acknowledge that neurodivergence extends beyond these examples and includes other conditions like Tourette's Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorder, and more. This diversity highlights the complexity of neurodivergent experiences and the need for a nuanced understanding. It's important to note that these conditions often coexist and manifest differently in each person, emphasizing the unique nature of neurodivergent experiences. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
CHALLENGES Families of neurodivergent children face unique daily challenges, and every community of faith should be interested in making every family member feel welcome and supported in the church family. The church has the transformative potential to support neurodivergent families. It is important to create a welcoming environment, fostering acceptance, and promote understanding. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
CHALLENGES Pervasive stigmas and misconceptions in society can: Create isolation and shame for parents and children alike Lead to unfair judgments and stereotypes Perpetuate the idea that these children are inherently flawed or less capable Hinder social acceptance and impede access to vital support and resources A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
CHALLENGES Unique caregiving challenges May require specialized care Educational accommodations with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) Complex web of appointments Therapy appointments Financial burden Unpredictability of neurodivergent conditions A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
ROLE OF THE CHURCH What does the Bible say about our responsibility to one another in society, particularly the church. And the King will answer and say to them, Assuredly I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me. Jesus says this will be said to the righteous who will inherit the kingdom because they gave me food took Me in visited Me A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN Matthew 25:40
Matthew 25:41-46 Then He will also say to those on the left hand, Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
Then they also will answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You? Then He will answer them, saying, Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me. And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Matthew 25:41-46 NKJV A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
Practical steps churches can take to promote awareness, inclusion, and a sense of community: Educating the congregation Hosting awareness events or workshops Adapting programs to ensure your church is accessible to neurodivergent children and their spiritual growth. Be intentional about creating an inclusive church home. Foster connections and mentorship within the congregation to provide companionship and support to neurodivergent families. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
Collaborating with Professionals: Church leaders must collaborate with experts in the field of neurodiversity. These professionals bring specialized knowledge, research-backed strategies, and practical insights that can significantly enhance the church's ability to meet the unique needs of neurodivergent congregants. By forging strong partnerships with experts, church leaders can access a wealth of resources and guidance to create more inclusive and accommodating environments. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
A CHURCH COMMUNITYS ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN GROUP EXERCISE
GROUP EXERCISE Break up into groups of 5-6 people. Discuss and write down your answers to the following questions: 1. Discuss the various neurodiversity conditions (ADHD, Autism, etc.). Be sure to include conditions that were not covered previously. 2. What are some of the challenges faced by neurodivergent children/teens/adults and their families? 3. In what ways has your local church marginalized or included neurodivergent families? 4. How can our church implement some of the strategies discussed in this seminar immediately? Within the next month, quarter, year? 5. How does the parable in Matthew 25 compel or encourage us to do more for those who need greater inclusion, compassion, and empathy? A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
CONCLUSION Supporting neurodivergent children and their families within the church community is not only a compassionate endeavor with far-reaching societal implications but also has eternal significance. When churches commit to creating inclusive environments, fostering acceptance, and providing tailored support, they contribute to a more equitable, empathetic society and represent Jesus to these families and the community. By valuing and accommodating neurodivergent individuals, churches enrich their communities and set an example for others to follow. A CHURCH COMMUNITY S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN
