Autism and Spiritual Direction Online Talk

Join us for the Carmelite Spirituality Network online Talk on Autism and Spiritual Direction

As awareness of autism is increasing in society, more autistic people are seeking spiritual direction. People often come with questions such as: Who am I? Why am I different? What is the purpose of my life? How can I connect with God? In this workshop, we will be learning about the main features of autism and how it affects people’s lives, concentrating on those who are of average or above average intelligence and who are verbal. We will think about our attitudes to people who are different. And we will consider how we can help them work through the spiritual issues that arise from living with this condition; and how we can adapt our practice to best meet their needs.

Date: Saturday 28th January 2023

Time : 16:00pm (UK, London)

Autism and Spiritual Direction

Speaker: Revd Dr Sue Hartley

Sponsored by the CARMELITE SPIRITUALITY NETWORK

Revd Dr Sue Hartley is a retired GP and a self-supporting priest in the Church of England. She currently works as a spiritual director and is a member of the London Centre for Spiritual Direction community. She is also on the leadership team of the Single Consecrated Life network in the Anglican church. Since being diagnosed with autism herself 6 years ago, she has been passionate about equipping church leaders and spiritual directors in their ministry to autistic individuals.

Schedule

3.45pm            Zoom opens
4.00pm Opening Prayer and Introduction
4.05pm            Introduction – Silent Reflection
4.15pm            Session 1: Understanding Autism
4.45pm            Interactions: Accepting Difference
4.55pm            Shared Reflection – Breakout Rooms
5.15pm            Comfort Break
5.30pm           Session 2: Application to Spiritual Direction
6.00 pm          Plenary

6.00 pm Silent Guided Prayer

Free for CSN Members

Non members
£20

The Carmelite Spirituality Network is offering this workshop for its members as part of enriching the ministry of Spiritual Directors.

This is also open to spiritual practitioners of other traditions of Christian spirituality – spiritual directors/accompaniers, formators, guides, retreat facilitators or anyone interested in spirituality.