Part of Nurturing Care’s ongoing work supporting congregations ministering to autistic children includes telling their stories. New Community Church recently provided in a story of how innovative micro communities, known as spiritual families, can make a difference alongside larger congregations. Stephanie Answer writes the following.

We hosted a lot of new individuals that had not participated in the groups last year. We had five individuals who were autistic or non speakers. We also had three who were neurodivergent and with sensory sensitivities and one sibling. All the parents or caregivers participated as well. Three of the kids have done sessions with Stephanie Barton, our Spelling 2 Communicate trainer. 

Everyone really enjoyed our time together. This lesson was on an aspect of prayer as being thankful. Each child brought something with them they were thankful for and we used that in the lesson to model and invite them to thank God for it while they held it. We reviewed lesson one, the same lesson that we had done in our sample group in January. We then did lesson two as our main lesson. Everyone did great using the letterboards during the lesson. And then after the lesson everyone participated in a sensory activity. 

I’m so thankful because this group included both families who regularly attend New Community and also those who are a part of our community outside of the church. One mom of a speller said “I’m happy to be able to participate. I know it’s very difficult for you and me (with our children’s needs) but we have to do activities for them…..(my son) was so happy today.” She then asked if she could share the videos and pictures she took during our group and said “people need to see and learn how activities like what you do or simply getting together as a community can help our children positively.” 

Another member reported “As a mother of a non-speaking child who uses Spelling 2 Communicate (S2C), I have witnessed the transformational impact of communication and inclusion. Engaging in community activities alongside other children has given my child the opportunity to connect, learn, and feel part of an environment that values his voice. These experiences not only strengthen his confidence but also foster a more empathetic and accessible community for everyone.”

A beautiful report about the intersection of prayer and love in a worshipping community. Nurturing Care is also “thankful” that we have such committed ministers and parents providing love and care for children with autism.