In The Politics of Autism, I discuss various ideas about what causes the condition. Many posts have discussed the potential correlates, risk factors, and possible causes that have been the subject of serious studies. Genetics tops the list. One thing that is NOT on the list is demonic possession.
Book-burning pastor Greg Locke has aired this nonsense. Alas, he is not alone.
Book-burning pastor Greg Locke has aired this nonsense. Alas, he is not alone.
Disturbed families at a Lake Worth Beach-area private school are weighing leaving the school after its Autism Awareness Week was called off by its pastor who called the activities "idolatry and demonic" in a school-wide email.
Trinity Christian Academy pastor Matt Baker wrote in the email to families March 30 that he would be canceling the week's dress up days because, he argued, the events encouraged students to prioritize other identities above their faith in Jesus Christ.
Students were encouraged to wear blue, dress up as something they love, style a funky hairdo or sport a fun hat, and wear tie dye, according to a flyer shared with parents.
"If Jesus Christ led Trinity, would HE have an Autism Awareness Week? Of course not! Why? Because anything that exalts itself above the name of Christ should be brought down," Baker wrote.
"The world, in its rejection and hatred of Christ, often devises programs such as 'Autism Awareness' (and cultural figures like the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus, etc.) to get the benefits of His teachings (compassion, kindness, feeling love, and self-worth) without acknowledging Jesus as the ultimate authority and the source of all life."
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The World Assemblies of God Fellowship website doesn't give schools or churches direct guidance on events and awareness activities, but the site does include a position on ministry to people who are disabled.
"People with disabilities are essential to the wholeness of the Christian community," the website says. "In a culture that worships physical perfection, devalues human life, and takes pride in disposability, the church must protect the helpless, vulnerable, disenfranchised, including people with disabilities. They are people created in God’s image, possessing dignity, value, and purpose."
