My name is Andrew Palmisano and I have been involved in Autism and Disability teaching/ministry for over 15 years. Additionally, I am blessed to have an eight year old son who was diagnosed with Autism.
At Deltona Lakes Baptist Church, I have been privileged to work with an extraordinary group of people in developing a full inclusion Autism Disability Ministry called "Two by Two." We have seen the mighty hand of God use us to positively impact the lives of families through this ministry.
I believe that God has called my family and I to share this ministry model with other churches, beginning in the Central Florida area. So many families and caregivers are hurting, but there are very few programs in place! Who better than the church to support them, pray for them and lead them into a closer relationship with Christ? And isn't this exactly what we are commanded to do as a church? (Hebrews 10 and I Corinthians 12)
We are calling this ministry "Autism Disability Ministry" or "ADM." We will begin by offering services to churches by way of seminars and consulting to help them start a ministry that fits their current ministry structure. Our goal is that every church would adopt a form of "Two by Two" inclusion ministry, but we recognize that this may come in stages for some churches.
ADM would also like to expand into helping parents/caregivers directly. We would like to see a donation program started that would help provide equipment (iPads, iPods, Laptops, etc.), services (therapy, supplements, etc.) and support.
This blog is intended to chronicle the journey of Autism Disability Ministry. We are asking for help in several ways:
1. Pray for the ministry and the families we hope to reach. Pray for the churches to be open to this under-served mission field.
2. If your church does not have an Autism Disability program, help us get in touch with your church leadership.
3. Donate to ADM.
Please join us on this adventure as we watch God work!
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