Diocesan Deacon Mark Paine has written new Autism-friendly resources for children and young people.

With the support of The God Who Speaks Scripture initiative Deacon Mark has developed the resources for RE teachers and Catechists who have no experience or specialist knowledge of Autism and related neurological differences.

The free resources draw on current best practice in inclusive and adaptive religious education and catechesis. They are available to use and download now and include a Foreword from Archbishop Bernard Longley.

Deacon Mark serves at Our Lady and St Rose of Lima, Weoley Castle and St Peter, Bartley Green. 

He is part of the global disability theology network, 'The Catholic Stream', formed recently in Rome and is focused on championing neurodivergence. 

Deacon Mark is Autistic himself and a father to Autistic children. He has over 28 years’ experience in primary education, with a particular interest in Special Educational Needs. Deacon Mark is the Lead Officer of Birmingham SENDIASS (SEND Information, Advice and Support Services).

The new resources are 'Called By Name' and 'Radical Belonging'.

Called By Name: Guide to Religious Education with Autistic Pupils aged 5-11 years.

Primarily for staff in mainstream schools to support their teaching of RE. It can also be used in parishes, particularly with pupils who attend specialist settings, and therefore may not have access to Catholic RE.

This free guide weaves tactile, visual and embodied experiences into every lesson, inviting every child - whether speaking in words, symbols or gestures - into the heart of God’s story. It centres on belonging and honours each pupil as a unique reflection of God.

It uses the age bands and Key Stage terminology of the National Curriculum but recognises that the learner’s capacity might be different from their chronological age.

Download: Called By Name

Radical Belonging: Guide to Sacramental Preparation with Autistic Young People.

Primarily for catechists in parishes and those responsible for sacramental preparation in our schools.

A parish is a home, not a hurdle. Our task is to recognise the image of God in every person, to welcome their presence as gift, and to make straight the paths that lead them to the sacraments.

This free guide offers a pastoral, practical pathway for catechesis with Autistic young people, including those who are non-speaking. It reflects a theology of dignity, belonging and mission. There are helpful definitions, acronyms, glossary terms and further recommendations at the end of this resource.

Download: Radical Belonging

You can read about Deacon Mark’s recent visit in Rome here and listen to his interview on the All Kinds of Catholic podcast here

If you would like Deacon Mark to discuss the new resources in your parish or school please contact him via email: [email protected]