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"Awareness ribbons" have become a ubiquitous part of our highway scenery. I squint at nearby cars, trying to determine what causes they are supporting by the color of their magnetic decals.

A unique version is the symbol for autism awareness: a ribbon patterned with multi-color puzzle pieces. The significance of this image is that, for many autistic individuals in our society, the world is an assault on the senses, a confusing tangle of strange customs and bizarre activity.

Life for them is indeed a puzzle - one which, too often, has no discernable place for them to fit in.

We like to think our parishes are accessible. Usually, that means a ramp to accommodate wheelchairs and perhaps some assistive listening devices for those with hearing loss. These things are wonderful and necessary if we wish to be inclusive, and a big step forward from what we had a generation ago.

Still, we have a long way to go. It is not so much equipment that's lacking, but understanding: For example, neurological disorders are only beginning to be considered as part of the accessibility issue.

Autism - which is not a singular condition, but a spectrum of syndromes - is as varied as the individuals it affects. Persons on the autism spectrum are often creative and highly intelligent, but frequently have a great deal of trouble communicating.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in 88 children is now diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Since this is a lifelong condition and many who are now adults were never definitively diagnosed, the overall percentage of the population with autism is surely higher.

Families on the spectrum do not take inclusion for granted. There are too many obstacles to deal with. Some of these, such as lighting, odors and noise, may be difficult to control in a public environment. But the attitudes and reactions of other people can be changed with education and awareness.

With that change will hopefully come new forms of catechesis, greater understanding on the part of parish leaders and - perhaps in larger parishes - occasional ASD-friendly Masses with gentle lighting, soft music and short, visually-enhanced homilies.

The Gospels show us that Jesus reached out to all sorts of people: the blind, lame, sick and poor, the lost and rejected. He taught us to love one another because we are all God's children and only through love will we find healing for ourselves and the world.

Our autistic brothers and sisters have gifts and talents to share. They deserve a chance to do so, whether it is by helping to plan décor, straightening up after Mass or serving as greeters.

Everyone needs to be needed. Everyone deserves our welcome. Becoming aware of the needs of autistic individuals is a vital first step. Being open to the presence and gifts of all our parishioners is an important part of a healthy parish and connects to the message of Jesus' agape teaching of unconditional love.

We can begin by learning:

• April is Autism Awareness Month - a good time to check out the Autism Society website, www.autism-society.org.

• "Catechesis for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Tips and Strategies" will be offered at www.rcda.org/spring_enrichment">Spring Enrichment May 15, 7-9 p.m.

• Also on the diocesan website, www.rcda.org, is a link to our new Facebook page for people with different gifts.

With a little effort, we really can make room for everyone in our parishes.

(Marie Slattery is a clerk for the Chancery at the diocesan Pastoral Center and has family members on the autism spectrum. Rosemarie Tobin is catechetical consultant for people with developmental disabilities and special needs at the diocesan Office of Evangelization, Catechesis and Family Life.)[[In-content Ad]]

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