Covington Church Holding Services For Autistic

A new concept in worship has been initiated by a Covington church.
As Autism Awareness Month launches Monday, those with autism and special needs and their families are invited to attend a new worship opportunity which was recently started by the  pastor and congregation of Mount Carmel United Methodist Church, located at 1200 N. Alleghany Ave.
The service, called “Autistic, Faith & Worship,” is a group of autistic and special needs individuals, families, church members and professionals who join together to provide a unique, family-oriented community and worship experience for the autistic and special needs communities in the Alleghany Highlands.
The bi-weekly service is held on Mondays, beginning at 6 p.m., in the church fellowship hall.
The next service is this Monday.
“As this service grows, we hope the autistic and special needs communities will find a place where families can meet, plan events, train and even provide training for other groups,” said Mount Carmel pastor, the Rev. Doug Hollenbeck. “There are already other churches in our area that are becoming more open and educated to receiving education from our group.”
Hollenbeck continued, “We join together with the individuals and families that participate to set the agenda, time and content of the programs and worship experiences. Each and every person has a voice and is very important to the group. We want each person to feel accepted, loved and important to the group and to the Alleghany Highlands community at large.”
The group is seeking input from individuals, families and professionals in the community on what they’d like to see as the service develops.
“By sharing your expertise and time, the group can develop the programs and systems that are needed to service the individuals and families in the autistic and special needs communities,” Hollenbeck said. “Think how nice it would be to have a secure place for all of us to worship as one family.
“Give us your input, so we can develop the group,” he added. “Tell us your concerns, your fears and doubts. Only by sharing our stories of victories and concerns can we learn to face them together, rejoice together and grow together.”
For more information, or to provide input, contact Hollenbeck at 962-2693.