Over the past two decades, awareness of neurodiversity has expanded significantly. But has this impacted how we do church? The stark reality is that, for example, autistic adults and families with autistic children are much less likely to come to church services.
We need to ask, what are the challenges of living with neurodivergent conditions such as autism or ADHD in the context of Church life – both for leaders and congregation? How can we recognise and appreciate people’s diverse giftings in church life? How can we live out our lives together as a community?
Join us for an interactive workshop specifically designed for church leaders and active church members. Together, we will explore this issue, beginning to think about the questions that will help us move forward in our understanding and identifying steps we can take to make our activities more accessible and inclusive.
All in-person attendees will receive a hot lunch.
Speakers and Topics
The Psychology of Neurodiversity
with Dr Helen West, University of Liverpool
At its heart, the gospel is a message of radical social inclusivity. However, for many neurodivergent people, the church does not feel like a safe and welcoming environment where they can be their authentic selves. This talk will explore the characteristics of different types of neurodivergence, including autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, and how they shape individuals’ experiences of church and faith. It will examine some of the challenges that neurodivergent people encounter, as well as the strengths they bring, fostering a deeper understanding of their unique perspectives. This session will also consider practical strategies for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for neurodivergent individuals in churches.
Neurodiversity and the Church: A Theological Perspective
with Dr Joanna Leidenhag, University of Leeds
In this talk, Dr Leidenhag explores how the shift from the language of ‘disorder’ to ‘diversity’ is deeply theological because it concerns ideals of human flourishing in community. She argues that churches should celebrate the neurodiversity of their congregations because neurodivergent ways of relating, sensing, and paying attention can help Christian communities avoid idolatry and open up new possibilities for interacting with a transcendent God.
Workshop on making churches more accessible to a neurodiverse congregation
with Jennie Prentice, Growing Hope
An opportunity to think broadly about the barriers those with additional needs often experience in a church setting. We will look at why we as Christians are called to make churches places of true welcome, how God speaks to us through our 8 senses, and what strategies/activities we can use across church that help more people of all ages to be part of family through those senses.
