Faith leaders are being called to rethink how churches welcome individuals with autism and their families, shifting from program-based support to relationship-driven inclusion. In Nurturing Care’s Day of Learning second session, titled “Faithful Partners in Belonging,” Dr. Melody Escobar highlighted that nearly half of families with a child with a disability have left churches—often multiple times—due to a lack of acceptance and meaningful connection.  

The session emphasized that true belonging goes far beyond physical presence, outlining ten key dimensions of belonging that define inclusive communities, including being known, needed, and loved. Dr. Escobar stressed that individuals with disabilities should not be viewed through labels or limitations, but as people with unique gifts and contributions. “A key sign of belonging,” the session noted, “is being missed when absent,” underscoring the importance of genuine relationships over surface-level inclusion.  

Escobar also challenged common misconceptions, including the belief that specialized programs are the primary solution. Instead, she argued that relationships—not programs—are the foundation of inclusion, and that churches do not need expert-level training to begin this work. “The same love, patience, and welcome already present in congregations can be extended intentionally,” Escobar concluded, reframing inclusion as both accessible and essential.  

To help congregations take action, Escobar outlined practical strategies such as creating sensory-friendly worship spaces, establishing support groups for parents, offering respite care, and appointing inclusion advocates to guide efforts. Ultimately, the message was clear: fostering belonging is a shared responsibility that strengthens entire communities. By prioritizing relationships and adapting ministry to meet diverse needs, churches can become places where every individual is not only welcomed—but truly known and valued.  

Escobar’s presentations highlight the work of congregations willing to take initial steps to foster belonging, much like the prototypes initiated by churches in Nurturing Care’s Maker’s Space project. Congregations across the midwest and southeast identify one prototype that allows them explore, build, and learn how to reach autistic kids through worship and/or prayer practices. To learn more about this unique program join Dr. Blevins for an Information Session April 27th either at noon CT or 7:00 pm CT by registering online.