Pope Francis says we need to break down the stigma of autism and is calling on government, institutions, and Christian communities to do so.
Speaking Saturday morning to the participants of a three-day conference held at the Vatican, he said support is needed to pay “due attention” to the rights, needs, and potential of those with autism, and that that support system must “always safeguard the dignity of every person.”
Titled “The Person with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Animating Hope,” the conference which gathered some 650 experts from nearly 60 countries, was sponsored by the Pontifical Council for Pastoral Health Care. It ran Thursday through Saturday in the Vatican.
Speaking to hundreds of parents and children affected with autism, the Holy Father began by thanking those who spoke on how it is live with autism for their “moving” and “meaningful” testimonies.
While saying autism spectrum disorders constitute “a fragility that affects numerous children and, consequently, their families,” the Pope said they represent an area “that appeal to the direct responsibility of governments and institutions, without of course forgetting the responsibility of Christian communities.”
By promoting acceptance, encounter and solidarity through “concrete support” and by “encouraging renewed hope,” he said, “we can contribute to breaking down the isolation and, in many cases, the stigma burdening people with autism spectrum disorders, and just as often their families.”
“This must not be an anonymous or impersonal accompaniment, but one of listening to the profound needs that arise from the depths of a pathology which, all too often,” he said, “struggles to be properly diagnosed and accepted without shame or withdrawing into solitude, especially for families.”
“It is a Cross,” the Pope said.
With proper support, Francis said, families can start to “overcome the feelings, which can sometimes arise, of inadequacy, uselessness and frustration.”
Pope Francis concluded by encouraging academics and researchers to discover therapies and support tools, to help, heal, and prevent the onset of conditions early, and calling on those gathered to join him in praying the Hail Mary.
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On ZENIT’s Web page:
Full Translation: http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/pope-s-address-to-autism-conference
