Seventy-five percent of special needs families who would attend a faith community do not because they've been asked to leave, lack physical access, have been scorned…the list goes on. Fortunately, more faith communities have realized that one in 100 children have autism, plus other disAbilities and that includes their members.
From Heartache to Hope, our art documentary photography coffee-table book, tells the stories of 18 families living with autism in Middle Tennessee. Country, contemporary Christian singer and songwriter, Tammy Vice is one of these families, and helping faith communities "embrace all God's people" is one of her life missions. Tammy, who is also an Autism Society of Middle Tennessee (ASMT) parent representative and I will be serving on a panel sponsored by the Jewish Family Service and the Gordon Jewish Communty Center (GJCC) addressing the issue of "Inclusitivity of People with Disabilities in Faith Communities" on Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m.
Other panelists include: Courtney Taylor, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center; Thomas Boehm, Faith For ALL, Julie Greenberg, educator at Congregation Micah and Cathy Hoop, director of children's ministries, Second Presbyterian Church.
The 21 photographs, including the one from our book cover, above, are on display at the GJCC gallery until September 30.
On Tuesday, Sept. 28, "The Horseboy" will show at the Vanderbilt Sarratt Center at 6:30. ASMT board member, John Shouse, also featured in From Heartache to Hope, will appear on a family discuss with me, autism and families after the movie. (The Nashville premiere of the movie was cancelled in late April and then early May due to traumatic weather events here.)
Our book did not receive grant funding for a second printing, so our team anticipates that these will be the last of our events. It's been a great ride. Thanks to all for your support and hope to see you at the above events.
Hey Leisa,
Congratulations on making a difference with the book and all of
your activities. I totally forgot about the faith conference.
My worst moment at my generally accepting church was with
one of the congregation whispering “I know what’s wrong with
him.” to another. Made me mad as fury and tearful at the same
time. Even people with good intentions can wound you sometimes
if they forget that you and your child are not exhibits to be explained.
Thanks for sharing that poignant story, Christine. I only have seven minutes to speak tomorrow night, but I may have to share that. I will not reveal the source. I love your last sentence: “You and your child are not exhibits to be explained.”
I once had someone from a church ask me point blank, is there something to matter with Grace? I looked at her and said, there’s nothing to matter. She does have autism….
Be sure and check out the previous post’s video. I think the lyrics will resonate.
Namaste.