You may have noticed the topic of neurodiversity coming up recently at St Mary’s – through a workshop for parents of neurodivergent children and the upcoming October seminar, ‘Uniquely Wired: Made with Purpose’.
So why are we focusing on this?
1. Because it affects many in our church family.
We’ve become increasingly aware that many members of our church family – adults, children and parents of those children are navigating life with autism, ADHD and dyslexia and face challenges in church or at home that may be hidden from the rest of us on a Sunday. We want to grow in understanding, compassion and support for one another, helping each other grow spiritually while recognising the unique ways our brains work.
2. Because it’s a live conversation in our culture.
Social media is full of people sharing their experiences with ADHD and autism. Pop up quizzes promise a quick diagnosis, and the NHS is overwhelmed with assessment requests. Is this just a trend? Are these labels helpful? As a church we want to listen well, learn thoughtfully and speak truth into today’s conversations.
3. Because God’s word speaks into this.
We believe that God ‘has given us everything we need for godly life’ (2 Peter 1:3) including insight into brain difference. At our seminar guest speaker Andrew Collins (Director of the Certificate Programme at BCUK) will help us to explore a biblical framework for understanding neurodiversity.
Uniquely Wired: Made with Purpose is a seminar for you if:
- You want to better understand how life may feel for many in our church family
- You’re curious about how neurodivergent brains work
- You want to explore how neurodiversity and a Christian faith connect and interact
To attend the seminar at St Mary’s church on 4th October 10:30am – 12:30pm