Asperger Syndrome (AS) is a neurological condition on the autism spectrum that involves differences in social interaction, accompanied by unusually intense or highly-focused interests and activities, and repetitive or stereotyped patterns of behavior. The condition is a pervasive developmental disability (PDD)  related to autism. It differs from autism in that those with AS by definition always have normal or above intelligence and no delay in language development in early childhood. 

Typical Asperger Strengths

• Loyalty
• Integrity
• Sincerity
• Independent thinking
• Internal motivation
• Logical decision making
• Strong memory for facts
In areas of special interest—
• Encyclopedic knowledge
• Abounding enthusiasm
• Intense focus 

Much of the information here about AS would apply equally to a similar autism spectrum disorder, PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified). Some may also use the term high-functioning autism as a rough equivalent to AS. Confused? A proposed revision of the diagnostic criteria will replace all these names with a single term: Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Many individuals with Asperger Syndrome have sensory processing differences , that is, heightened sensitivity to one or more types of sensory stimuli. 
A Healing Community in an Overstimulated World by Paul Leichty and Christine Guth describes practical steps that congregations can take to become more inclusive and welcoming of people with sensory processing differences.

Now back in print - in English or Spanish!

Autism and Faith: A Journey Into Community. This unique guide is the product of two years of work by The Autism and Faith Task Force in New Jersey. The Task Force is a joint effort of The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities and the Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community (COSAC). 
    With articles by family members, theologians, pastors, rabbis, people with autism, and professionals, the booklet contains facts about autism, pastoral care, religious education, strategies for supporting families, tips for lay people, and a listing of religious and public resources. The articles are highlighted by real life stories from families who responded to an autism and faith survey. Order hard copy for $5 or download a PDF for free. Hard copy is free to residents of New Jersey.

Book Review by Christine Guth

Revised 2011 edition

A new chapter offers tips on responding to challenging behaviors

Autism and Your Church by Barbara J. Newman is a resource from Friendship Ministries.  This workbook offers practical ways to welcome and include individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) into the full life of a congregation.

This excellent practical book is reviewed by Christine Guth.  You can now order this and other Friendship Ministries resources directly from ADNet.

Newman offers suggestions for monitoring the sensory input in your church environment (see the book for more details):

• Provide a "reset" area
• Offer "break time" instead of imposing "time out"
• Don't insist on eye contact
• Weigh the effects of touch
• Add rocking chairs and trampolines
• Think along with an individual

Book Review by Christine Guth
Order this book

Autism and Your Church Training DVD by Barbara Newman produced by Faith Alive Christian Resources

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