Description
Abstract: Families with a child on the autism spectrum are among the least likely to attend church, according to research by Andrew Whitehead. If children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are to be discipled, we must reimagine discipleship expectations and practices to enable ASD children to grow in faith. This begins with the affirmation that ASD children can be discipled. Utilizing Deuteronomy 6:4–9 as the example, this article explores what discipleship looks like for children with ASD and how it may differ from neurotypical children.
Matt McCraney, Ph.D., is a chaplain (major) in the US Army. He has served in pastoral ministry since 2006. He has a Ph.D. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a D.Min. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Matt has been married to his wife Sarah for 21 years, and they have four children. His son Timothy has ASD.
