Reflections on “Neurodivergence and the Christian Life” – Centre for Christian Living

Olivia, David and Joel had the privilege of attending a biblical ethics workshop at Moore College on Tuesday night, hosted by the Centre for Christian Living. The evening was titled “Neurodivergence and the Christian Life” and was thoughtfully chaired by Tony Payne.

It was a rich and moving evening, with many brothers and sisters present who live with ADHD, AUDHD, or autism. There was honest sharing from the floor and generous insights offered by the panel, helping us all reflect on how the Christian community can better understand and support neurodivergent individuals.

A key tool shared on the night was the acronym GRASP, for ethical reflection:

• G – Grasp: Understand the situation thoughtfully

• R – Reflect: Apply theological thinking from the Bible

• A – Assess: Rethink the situation and consider the options

• S – Select: Narrow the options and choose what to do

• P – Perform: Carry it out faithfully and well

It was a great framework for approaching complex pastoral situations in a way that is both biblically grounded and compassionately aware.

Two guests on the panel were particularly helpful:

• Kate Morris, who spoke powerfully from lived experience. She writes at An Extraordinary Normal: Faith, Family and Neurodivergence.

• Lindy Hedges, Chair of the ADHD Foundation, who shared practical insights and highlighted resources available through adhdfoundation.org.au.

Other recommended resources included:

• Grant Macaskill, Autism and the Church: Bible, Theology and Community (Baylor, 2019)

• Brooke Hazelgrove, How a Late ADHD Diagnosis is Growing My Understanding of God, Faith and SelfCentre for Christian Living Article

• New Leaf Centre – Offers Christian-friendly counselling and support services for neurodivergent people and parents

• Youthworks College – Now offering a unit of study entitled Children and Young People with Disability and Neurodivergence(Contact Youthworks on 02 8093 3414 or visit youthworkscollege.edu.au)

Finally, the Centre for Christian Living is releasing a multi-part podcast series on Neurodivergent Christian Living—worth keeping an eye (or ear!) out for.