Welcome to Saint Thorlak’s Virtual Café: a place to pause, rest, and refresh. Neurodivergent life is challenging enough by itself, and we want you to know that we’re on the journey with you.
Maybe you just need a moment to sit in silence and enjoy a brief respite from the demands of the day. Maybe there is a situation on your mind that could benefit from our praying together, or maybe we have an insight or bit of direction which might be helpful. Funny story? Special interest? Popcorn thoughts? All welcome here! Type your thoughts into the form below to muse, blurt out, unburden or just be who you are.
Think of this as a small way we can offer hospitality within our means as autistic individuals who thrive on both interacting with our community and the extra processing space allowed by typewritten communication. We believe it is possible to experience meaningful connection even in non-traditional ways, and this “café” page is our way of demonstrating that.
Enjoy your time here!
Tap either arrow, or use arrow keys, to side-scroll the conversation.
So forgettable!
With fall and the end of the year coming up, faith formation, lay projects and ministries have been going full blast in my parish-except one: the ministry of “special needs” (which is an insulting term in my opinion) I have noticed that ministry has not started up with Masses once a month, nothing, great big fat zero. Tell me you don’t care without telling me you don’t care. Having washed my hands of any ministry over a year ago, I’m confirmed in my mindset that disabled people have no true place in the church.
Sensory Helps Response
I like the idea of a notebook or sketchpad. I’ve never tried that. Thank you! At Mass I usually wear a fidget ring. Sometimes I keep a rosary or rosary bracelet in my hand and finger the beads, or turn the pages of a prayer book that has copies of beautiful paintings. I also make sure to sit over to the side of the church where it’s quieter. If I’m a little wiggly I try to remember that God doesn’t mind because He created and loves me autistic. 🙂
Sensory helps at Mass
What are some good go-tos for sensory regulation at Mass? I’m looking for something low-tech and easily portable. In other places I use adult coloring books but that’s too much for me to carry and keep track of. I need something that helps me focus and retain what is said in the homily. Anyone have good luck with a sketchpad or notebook?
Join the Café conversation!
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