I can’t believe it. I’m still in shock. My 13 year old autistic son is going to be taking First Communion and Confirmation classes this year. There was a time that I didn’t think he would get either, and now he’s going to do both. It’s going to be a lot of work for him, but my husband and I will be with him every step of the way.
It’s not a given your Catholic autistic son will be able to receive First Communion or Confirmation. It depends on the church you are attending, and the priest at the church. When we lived in Fayetteville, my son was refused admittance into classes. Any classes. The reason given was that he couldn’t talk. I was told that I had to educate him at home. It broke my heart and I turned my back on the church.
When we moved, back to this little town that I have grown to love, I tried again. This time, I was met with open arms. My son was welcomed into the church and into the classes. The only requirement they had for taking First Communion and Confirmation classes was that the child needed to attend regular classes for two years. Well, my autistic son made it through those two years, and they have given the green light for him to start First Communion and Confirmation education this year. It’s a lot. I didn’t think that both could be done at the same time, but they can.
First Communion for Both Kids
My son won’t be the only one preparing for a major step in his religious education. My daughter will be taking First Communion classes, too. It looks like we are going to have a big celebration in May 2013, for both of my kids. I’d like to do something really special for them both, but something extra special for my son. I’m thinking that it has to involve Shania Twain, since my son loves her music and videos. I need to figure out how to burn her videos off of YouTube, and play them on the tv. I’m also going to start putting money aside, little by little, and try to get him an iPad. He really wants one, but they are expensive. I have 10 months to put together the best party in the whole world. Anyone have some Shania Twain posters they want to get rid of?
I am so proud of him. Lizzy Beth too
We are going to give them a big party, and want everyone come. It’s going to be a huge milestone for Dean, and a big step for Lizzie too.
Wow, congrats! I’m really surprised that it’s not a given that an autistic child can get communion.
Kelly recently posted..Paleo Menu: Easy Pork Recipes
What a milestone! I know you are so proud! Yes mamn, sounds like you have a big celebration to plan!
Mandy recently posted..Dependability Matters To Me- #MaytagMoms
What a great thing. And so very special.
toni recently posted..Go Back To School With Famous Footwear
Well done, that’s wonderful news and a great leap for acceptance.
BTW, have you tried forwarding this story onto Shania Twain? She or her agents might be be able to help.
See: http://www.facebook.com/shaniakidscan
Gavin Bollard recently posted..The Olympics and Genetics and Aspergers Syndrome
Thanks. I’ll try that.
Awesome! Congrats!
A Time Out for Mommy- Elaina recently posted..My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic: Royal Pony Wedding
AWESOME! Congrats to both of them!
Sara Phillips recently posted..Sweet Tea #Recipe
That is awesome! Congratulations to all of you.
Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy recently posted..Mission $50 Visa Gift Card Giveaway
What wonderful news for you and your family! Congratulations!!
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It may sound crazy but you may want to email Shania Twain manager or PR group (its usually on their website). It is very hit and miss but I know we used to write to some of these artists for the kids (my department and parents too) and we often were surprised by treats. They usually get a tax credit for the donation and make a kids day. I wouldn’t be surprised if they would at least send you an official video of one of her concerts. It may be a long shot but I know I used to have a lot of luck emailing country music stars
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I left a message on her FB fan page, and Gavin did too. I’m hoping they will notice it.
I hope they do! What I always did was hit the Facebook and website. I know it was a trick other teachers taught me when I started teaching and I got some fun things for the kids.
Susan Bewley recently posted..CitraSud Natural Laundry Detergent Review
How wonderful and exciting!!!!!
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This is great! I bet you are thrilled. You must be very proud of him. I may not have a Shania Twain poster but i have all of her CD’s in my closet
I love her music!
What a proud moment. Enjoy your celebrations next year!
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It sounds like your house will be full of excitement in May of 2013. I will look forward to an update!
Congratulations and Blessings on all of you! My son also completed the classes for first communion and confirmation. Then he was told not to come back the next year half way through the CCD year. LOL
Ironic thing is, he knows dogma better than most cradle Catholics, even if he doesn’t always understand the metaphors and symbolism.
I’ll keep you all in my prayers.
This is AWESOME news; congratulations to him!
Patty recently posted..Look What Fed Ex Just Delivered: Ecover!
That is wonderful. We haven’t started religious Ed yet because we have spent so much time on recovery. But I’m guessing it is coming.
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