Orthodoxy is a Large Tent…There is Room for All of Us, by Fr. Matthew

Father Matthew was visited by God during the Divine Liturgy and was told that his Presybtera would be having a daughter and that he was to name her “K.”

This post concerns our Orthodox Christian response to disabilities in our parish communities; Father Matthew’s God given daughter has one: Tourette’s Syndrome.

Father Matthew describes the symptoms of Tourette Syndrome, which usually include strong physical reactions to stimuli, such as shouting, which “K” has done during services. This can be a distraction for her fellow parishioners, who sometimes become upset and complain.

Father Matthew calls for understanding and charity for loud children as well as all those church members with special needs, and to support these children and their parents and families. He encourages us to show to compassion to all that are in need.

To access Father Matthew’s Post:

http://www.fathermatthew.com/?p=440

Father Matthew and his family:

The Mighty: What It Feels Like to Live With Neuro-Fatigue, by Natalie Sayre

Natalie Sayre suffers from chronic lyme disease and chronic migraines. In this post she describes how her symptoms have moved past “brain fog.” There are no cures for it. Her life is a struggle. Aside from the healthful practice of plenty of sleep, she has found has found a “lifeline” and solace through the practice of mindfulness.

Mindfulness can be a helpful practice. Orthodox Christianity would also recommend the therapy of the Jesus Prayer – “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner” – or a shorter version of the same, or similar breath prayers, to find focus.  

This article previously appeared in Mindful Migraine, Natalie Sayre’s personal blog, in which she . . .

shares actionable insights on everyday wellness while living with chronic illness, and tools that will empower you to create calm inside of health chaos.

To access the post: The Mighty: What It Feels Like to Live With Neuro-Fatigue

Natalie and Will:

 

 

Summer Kinard: Parent Sticker Chart

From Summer Kinard: Words in Season – Autism*Church*Disabilities*Children’s Ministries*Homeschool

What is ABLEnow

ABLEnow accounts help individuals with disabilities save money to pay for qualified expenses, without being taxed on the earnings – and in most cases, without losing eligibility for certain means-tested benefit programs.

To access the website: