Autism Awareness Day

For Autism Awareness Day 2025, Autistic Catholics wants to encourage all Catholics to be aware of and appreciate their fellow Catholics who are autistic. Contrary to stereotypes about autism, individuals with autism do care about social connections and want to participate in community life and contribute meaningfully to their parish. Approximately 2% of all people are autistic. However, we often do not feel welcome in our local parish. Therefore, we want to encourage dioceses and parishes to do more to welcome us and support our meaningful participation in the liturgy and mission of the Church. Some examples include inviting a person with autism to come, to serve and offering sensory friendly Masses, adaptive catechesis, and autistic small groups.