The Hallways of My Church Maria Abinader
I’ve always loved going to church Because it felt like a place of welcome, a place where I belong.
That all changed when I started bringing my little boy to church. You see, my little boy has AUTISM and he gets sensory overload. He becomes echolalic, he repeats everything he hears and laughs inappropriately.
I immediately start getting weird looks from people around me So I get up and go out to the hallways.
Walking through those hallways makes me very sad. I don’t want to be in the hallways, I want to be inside. I came to hear God’s words and I can’t do it from outside.
While walking the hallways, I’ve met some really nice moms. We’ve cultivated friendships and we’re always kind.
Then I realize that I have a choice to make Do I stay inside and feel that I’m bothering everyone Or do I walk the hallways and look at everyone inside?
When you give a mom a weird look: in a minute you forget;
But there’s little waves a-flowing, and there’s ripples circling yet,
And perhaps in some sad heart a mighty wave of tears you’ve stirred,
You’ve made some people sad that just wanted to come to church.
People with developmental disabilities Lack the opportunities and supports.
Please understand that in the hallways we don’t feel like we belong!
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Autism and Faith
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