At the core of Unitarian Universalist faith is a deep promise: the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and a commitment to accept one another and encourage spiritual growth. We open our doors to people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and identities. Truly living into these principles requires us to continually ask: Who are we inadvertently leaving outside the circle of comfort?
Neurodivergence is the beautiful reality that human brains process information, sensory inputs, and emotions in vastly different ways. This includes individuals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, sensory processing disorder, Tourette’s, and other neurological variations.
For a long time, the world treated neurodivergence as a deficit to be corrected. Now, we recognize it as a natural, vital form of human diversity. Just as an ecosystem needs different plants to thrive, our congregation needs different minds to truly understand the fullness of the human experience. Creating a genuinely welcoming space means moving beyond mere tolerance toward active accessibility and belonging. It means shifting our cultural expectations so that neurodivergent folks do not have to "mask" or exhaust themselves to fit into our community.
To widen our welcome, we can commit to a few mindful practices together:
Embrace different ways of being: normalize fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones, or people needing to stand, pace, or leave the sanctuary during a service. (Fidgets and noise-cancelling headphones are located on the Faith Development shelves near the Welcome Table).
Respect communication boundaries: Recognize that direct eye contact, small talk, or a physical handshake can be overwhelming for some. A warm smile or a wave is just as meaningful.
Utilize the quiet spaces: we have designated quiet zones where people can retreat when sensory stimulation becomes too intense. (The Wiggle Room is located off the fellowship hall and Rooted Space is located behind the Welcome Table). There is also a television livestreaming the Sunday service in the fellowship hall for those needing a little more space.
Ditch the assumptions: If someone responds to a situation in a way that seems unusual or blunt, assume good intentions. Celebrate the honesty and unique perspectives brought to our community.
True inclusion changes the environment, not the person. When we cultivate a culture where neurodivergent folks can show up as their authentic selves, our entire community grows deeper, wiser, and more resilient. Let’s continue to build a congregation where every mind is honored, and everyone truly belongs.
Questions about welcoming, the HoMe Team, or membership?
Contact Barbara Frazell, memprof@liveoakuu.org
