04/12/2026
They say “all are welcome.”
But for many families living with autism… that hasn’t always been true. Autism doesn’t always look like what people expect in a church setting.
It may show up as:
• A child who can’t sit still through service
• A teen who avoids eye contact or doesn’t respond when greeted
• A sudden need to leave during worship because the music is overwhelming
• A young adult who processes sermons differently or needs more time to engage
• A family sitting near the exit…just in case
Too often, those moments are misunderstood as disruption… instead of difference.
A little over a month ago, I stood in a local church and spoke about something that shouldn’t be revolutionary but still is. Since that conversation, the work that I’ve done in the faith community has grown.
I’ve been invited back to:
• Share a Holy Communion reflection on what the resurrection means to me
• Lead the church’s autism support group
• Moderate a women’s conference while continuing this conversation on inclusion, strategy, and accountability
This is what real community engagement looks like, this is what bridge-building looks like.
So what can churches DO that is not performative inclusion, more than good intentions, and is real, practical change?
• Normalize movement, noise, and different forms of participation
• Train greeters and leaders to respond with understanding—not judgment
• Create sensory-aware environments (even small adjustments matter)
• Communicate clearly with families before they even walk through the door
• Extend grace—to the individual and to the entire family
If the environment doesn’t feel safe for their loved one, the entire family stays home. That means we’re not just excluding individuals, we’re losing entire families from community, connection, and faith spaces.
There will always be people who question my work. Who ask, “What does she actually do?”
I build bridges between what exists and what’s possible. Right here in Southern Maryland. Across the state of Maryland. In real spaces. With real people. Creating real change.
If your church, organization, or leadership team is ready to move beyond intention and into action I am ready to partner with you. Let’s build communities where everyone belongs. Reach out to schedule a conversation or bring this work to your space.
