Good morning Ms. Alisyn,

It is the Churches property, but talk about insensative.

This guy is supposed to be a priest? Where is sharing of love for God’s children? Sounds like he needs a refresher course.

Have a great day.

chas

Alysin,

The new question of the day. Hum…well, I must agree with Chas and wonder whatsup. We don’t maybe know all the facts yet, it would seem. Good question, as all I managed to hear was priest and church and child kicked out. Pouring milk for the grandpa got in the way.
If he is six foot tall, this presents a problem. Why the restraining order? Can we assume there was a conversation first. I hope so. This is definitely an interesting situation, and problematic for all parties concerned. lol

Your Royal Hotness (YRH),

The priest went overboard and should have searched his heart for a better solution. Expecially when the Church has suffered so much from priest sex scandals. I know a family with an autistic child and it is extremely tough. They are responsible for his behavior and yet the priest is responsible for providing the family the comfort of the Church. Maybe he should have considered a Mass open to families and persons with disabilities.

BTW, Gretchen Carlson is so beautiful (HOT) in that classy white outfit. She looks like the HOTEST part of a flame.

I am extremely frustrated about crafting blog entries and having them not show up. With your permission YRH, may I try to repost an another missive about Open Blog Friday?

Will Penny

good morning alisyn

it seems other types of arrangements could be made at the church some churches have rooms for children while the parent attends services but banning seems a little extreme

It is such a shame that a church would ban anybody from going to church. If need to get technical then I would say they would need to ban all babies and children. I mean what is wrong with this picture. Do you think God would not let anyone into heaven if they wet their pants or cried out loud. Then what child would be let in if this is how God ran heaven. I have seen supposedly normal grown ups act out more inappropriately than a child at times. I think it is just so, so sad.

Goodmorning Alisynshine Dweety,
There are other churches out there to attend. I wouldn’t want to go to a church where I wasn’t welcome anyway. In the other news, why didn’t you just call those silly crazed orangatangs Hillary and Barak?

Sweety I meant

Good Day All:
I think the pastor should have dicussed all options with the family, and done a warning before this cource of action.

The church should do it’s real job and get the kid the help he needs to keep him from being disruptive and dangerous.

Alysin,

We have left church in the past when the “children” were “disruptive”. If you are sitting there with six little ones, and all of them are crying for one reason or the other, it is time to excuse oneself, I would think. There should be a resolution that both parties could have reached. Six foot and 225 pds. That is not a child…that is an adult size person. The two year old could be a handful, if deciding not to behave. I can’t even imagine a child like mental capacity in an adult size body. Priests don’t choose this as a remedy if there is another handy. There is more to this story than the plea from the mama, which we all are sympathetic with, and the churches very aggressive remedy. lol

Good Morning Alisyn,
this is a tough one.
Sal

Another case of the few ruling the many. If he can not behave in church, he should not be there. I had 8 children and they behaved out of respect for the place they were and the other people there.

Alysin,

Perhaps the church has done just that Dog. There is more to this story, I promise. This just does not usually happen, even in this atmosphere of no children please, at weddings and other important events. We prob won’t get to hear the end game. That is usually what happens. We are left with this, the church is at it again feeling, when that is prob not the case at all. lol

The church is a haven for those who are in need and unless the boy is proven to be dangerous to others. He should be allowed to attend services. It is not an act of Christian Charity for the Church to turn away those who need them the most. Too many today sit in the front pew…mumble their Amen’s but fail to understand the words or live up to their own expectations of others. Let him attend services and if he proves too disruptive they can work with the family to find other ways to accomdate his presence.

Btw the reason all the Orangutan are escaping they heard Brian is looking to adopt and they want to be first in line. Want to bet their all females Brian always was a Chick magnet.

It’s a story where we don’t have all of the facts … And both sides are not telling the whole story … 6′0 & 225# at 13yo is quite a large kid … There must have been something in the evidence presented to the court for the judge to grant the restraining order and the sheriff to enforce it …

Ashlee Simpson’s wedding reception — According to People.com … “The Alice in Wonderland themed reception featured a wedding cake by Sam Godfrey of Perfect Endings with a top hat, tea pot, stop watch and a pot of flowers on top.”

Kenny Chesney and the ACMs — The ACM broadcasts were part of the deal when Redskins owner Dan Snyder bought Dick Clark Productions last year … Kenny Chesney was NOT upset with the fans … He was upset with the Academy’s “Idol-ization” of the Entertainer of the Year award (as power voting screws things up) … I’m just glad the whole award was not up to the “fans” as the AI fangurlz would’ve made Carrie Underwood the Entertainer of the Year …

Btw – What a shock it was to see you & Doocy on “NASCAR RaceDay” on Saturday doing the segment about the “fan vote” for the NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star race … One complaint – You mispronounced Patrick Carpentier’s name (It’s “Pah-treak Car-pawn-tee-ay”) … I thought it was a funny coincidence that the eventual winner of the fan vote was from Enumclaw, WA and he went on to win the All-Star race and $1 Mil …

As Sal said, it’s a tough call.

Good Morning
Virginia,Chas and sweet Alisyn.
Sal

Alysin,

We go to a very large church downtown and there are many homeless hanging out. The church does take care of that part of their community, but they might not be welcome to come in a disrupt the mass. C’mon guys! This is ridiculous and a person is not entitled to be anywhere if they are disruptive…church, school, the store, the park, possibly their front porch!!?? The police just might be called. Yep, that could happen. Why would we assume malicious intent from a community that would not normally be malicious. lol

Morning Sal.

It IS a tough call..Albeit, sending a cop out to a citizen’s home to threaten them isn’t…That was over the top and possibly unconstitional..Judge?

“unconstitutional”

ALISYN;
I WOULD BET THAT FATHER JONATHAN DOES OR WOULD NOT CONDONE THIS ACTION IF HE IS
AWARE OF IT.IT GOES AGAINST EVERYTHING I’VE BEEN TAUGHT.I WOULD SAY THAT IT IS THE
MOST IMPORTANT.JESUS WALKED AMONG LEPER’S AND TALKED TO THEM.MERCY,COMPASSION,
CHARITY AND ACCEPPTENCE.IF THAT WERE MY CHURCH I WOULD LEAVE AND ENCOURAGE
OTHER’S TO DO THE SAME.I WOULD WRITE A LETTER OF PROTEST TO THE BISHOP.I HAVE P.T.S.D. SUPPOSE I WERE TO HAVE A FASHBACK WOULD I BE BARRED.WHAT ABOUT SOMEONE
WITH TOURET’S SYNDROME ARE THE ALLOWED.THIS IS A BLACK MARK ON THAT CHUECH.THERE
ARE NO CHRISTIAN’S THAT ATTEND.

Has this been the church this family has been attending all along? If so, why is it now this is becoming such an issue and don’t you think this would have been something that they would have addressed some time ago?

Alysin,

It would be interesting to hear from some of your bloggers on just what their expectations are when they leave the house to go to church, with children or without, in tow. Yes, I would like to hear just exactly what is expected…yes I would! Betcha not a six foot 225 pound disruptive person…yeppers, betcha my annuity that would be the case!!!!! lol

5/19/2008 8:36 AM

Your Royal Hotness,

The priest went overboard and should have searched his heart for a better solution. Expecially when the Church has suffered so much from priest sex scandals. I know a family with an autistic child and it is extremely tough. They are responsible for his behavior and yet the priest is responsible for providing the family the comfort of the Church. Maybe he should have considered a Mass open to families and persons with disabilities.

Will Penny

Good morning Alisyn,

This indeed is a difficult issue. I can appreciate that Mrs. Race wanted to attend church with her son; however, her son is not a toddler over which she would have some degree of control. I don’t think we know all of the facts in order to make an informed decision on this story. Does this church not have a “cry room” where parents can take their disruptive kids so that they can still attend the service, but allow other parishoners to have a meaningful worship experience?

When my boys were small, if they made so much as a peep in church, I took them out of the sanctuary and to our church lounge, where I could hear the service and they could cry/talk/etc. without bothering anyone else. Perhaps I am guilty of being too sensitive to other people’s needs, but I could not in good conscience EVER allow a child to disrupt a church service (or any other public gathering, for that matter).

Make it a great day, Alisyn! Also, please tell Brian to cover something else besides the pro basketball playoffs when he does his sports report……..like our fantastic Pittsburgh Penguins!!!!!!

Pat

No comment on this but I would sure like to see something about Annika Sorenstam and how you guys really blew the interview this morning… what a shame… greatest woman golfer in our time getting ready to do wonderful things for kids and others and the Friends can’t even pronounce her name correctly.

Alysin,

Ken…if you are in your community that knows you and loves you, I expect the squad would be called immediately. That’s what would happen I am sure. This is not unconstitutional. Sheesh! Private property. One cannot disrupt! i.e. gays dressed as nuns? disrupting mass? this is not acceptable or a constitutional right. I think NOT!!! lol

5/19/2008 8:42 AM

I was musing in my sleep about Open Blog Friday’s first question:
“1. President Bush’s speech in Israel. Was he referring to Barack Obama’s foreign policy?”
Upon further reflection, I was partially correct. His remarks were about Jimmy Carter’s unprecedented and disgraceful abuse of his former office by conducting foreign policy. Furthermore, they were about Barrack Obama’s uninformed remarks, and lets not leave out Hillary. Barrack was taken to the woodshed for his comments about “talking to our adversaries.” Hillary was taken to the woodshed for proclaiming she would obliterate Iran in the event that country attacked Israel. Moreover, let us not forget Nancy Pelosi and her mid-East trip.
Foreign policy is the prerogative of the President of the United States. It is not the prerogative of candidates for that office nor is the prerogative of the Speaker of the House. Their actions have the effect of blurring the lines in the minds of our allies and our enemies of the President’s publically stated foreign policy.
Unpredictability of the United States foreign policy has its usefulness, but not this kind of unpredictability. (If I did not have to report to the salt mines I could cite a couple of case studies; maybe another time and maybe if anyone reads this and is interested in further explanation.)
I would write more but there is no guarantee this entry will be posted to the Aliblog.

Will Penny

YRH,

Miracles do happen! My OBF 2nd post made it. Thanks.

Will Penny

Good points Will…and well stated!

MORRNIN EVERYONE,

The Bible is The Book of Life.I think some people should read it and apply.Not just the parts they want.
This POOR Family,They are blessed as are all who face such in life.So says OUR LORD GOD.They
have every right to attend any church they wish.Have you ever been to some services where
some parents do nothing to control thier children?HELLO…This happens in every Church not just
thier chosen faith.I myself,I am a Christian,I see no differance in anything.Race,etc…that in itself
has brought problems.I live in the BIBLE belt,enough said.I was tought the first 7 words,and to live and die by those WORDS.
Thank-You &
Keep The Faith

hi aly,
13, 6′,225 lbs.-and a management case-
the decision to keep him away was made by several in the congregation-
they are afraid of litigaton

I think there is more to this story then meets the eye. Having gone to church with my children for many years it was at times difficult and at other times impossible to stay. I knew when my kids hit their limit and before they hurt themselves, someone else, or disrupted the entire congregation I would remove them from the building. We all need to learn to be more respectful to those around us. I feel badly the church resorted to “banning” the boy with a restraining order but I would imagine there were many, many conversations, suggestions, and thoughts from both sides. To say that “they” the church folk don’t understand autism is irrelevant to the situation. Autistic or not if the boy is too big to control and is indeed flailing his arms and legs people could get hurt. That is not to say it was done purposefully and with malice. The church has the right to do what it feels necessary to protect the congregation as a whole. Like I said, it seems to me there is more to this story then what was reported. I cannot fathom that this Priest woke up one morning and decided to file a restraining order without good cause.

Alysin,

Sonja…not a right honey, nope. And I was also raised in the bible belt, in the word. Not a “right” at all. The whole story has not been told, and to bash “the faith” is also not a Christian way to respond regarding a Christian community. lol

Alisyn – Would you tell Doocy that the 91 degree temp on Saturday was completely uncalled for?? How am I supposed to perfect my ginormous chocolate chip cookies IF it’s too flippin’ hot to bake??

You’ll enjoy this footage of Snoqualmie Falls from Friday and April …

http://www.kirotv.com/video/16297123/index.html

Alysin,

Donna…ditto!!! lol

Alysin,

Good morning Marshall. I agree as always. lol

Excellent questions Laurie..We havn’t heard the complete story.

Alysin,

Ah~~sigh~~Will!!! As usual you are spot on. I am glad you got out of your hammock and fire pit duty, to come and comment!! Or are you comfortably ensconced in said hammock, and blogging? Good morning! lol

Allisson:

Unfortunately, I feel that the whole story is not being presented, and that there’s alot more to be said. I would agree that disallowing anyone from attending Mass is somewhat disturbing. However, let’s assume there were conversations to help this young man out and provide alternatives for him and his mother to attend Mass. What about the other church members; we really haven’t heard there side. I assure you if a child caused harm in my presence with anyone, that would be a huge problem and I would not want that child attending the same service or any service for that matter.

Since this is an opinion, and because the whole story is not told here, I’m going to agree with the priest on this one. Believe me, I have run into a very similar situation with my child. The priest had every right to confront me ask that I take my son out of the Sanctuary when he was getting out of hand. Mass is for me and my family, but it also includes those around me as well and it’s not right for anyone to be disruptive and ruin everyone elses service.

THIS IS A VERY SAD SITUATION AND CAN UDERSTAND BOTH SIDES. FOR THE MOST PART
PEOPLE DO NOT UNDERSTAND THAT TRAINING FOR CHURCH WORKERS IS AVAILABE FREE
OF CHARGE TO THOSE WANTING IT.

THIS IS A CONSTANT WITH PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM, NO ONE WANTS TO TAKE
THE TIME TO UNDERSTAND THE SITUATION AND PARENTS ARE SHUNNED AS WELL AS THE
CHILDREN! WHAT SHOULD WE DO? LET THEM GO TO HELL?

I AM HOPING BY THE PUBLICITY OF THIS SOMETHING WILL HAPPEN! HATS OFF TO THE MOTHER THAT WILL PRESS ON WITH THE RIGHTS OF HER 13 YEAR OLD SON. THIS PRIEST IS UPSET
OVER TIME IN CHURCH? THIS MOTHER SPENDS 24/7. I DO HOPE THE PRIEST CHECKS INTO
OTHER OPTIONS AND OPENS HIS DOORS TO A VERY HURTING SOCIETY. THE ODDS OF A CHILD DEVELOPINT AUTISM ARE STAGGERING. HE OBVIOUSLY HAS NOT HAD IT HIT HIS FAMILY OR HE WOULD NOT BE SO QUICK WITH HIS ACTIONS. IS CHURCH A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE PLACE?

THANKS FOR FOX NEWS FOR MAKING THIS PUBLIC!!!! GO TEAM GO! I HOPE THAT YOU WILL NOT STOP HERE BUT PRESS ON FOR THE RIGHTS OF THOSE WITH DISABILITIES.

Annika is pronounced AWnika not ANnika. But my point was that you didn’t talk to her about the things that you said you were in the prologue… marriage to whom, what her foundation was, etc., etc…

This is horrible-I mean to claim Christianity *christ likeness* and turn away someone from church-anybody from church is ridiculous. I mean, come on if Jesus had only hung around the really well behaved-the Bible would have been much more boring! This is crazy!!!! They go against everything Christianity is supposed to stand for,

Alysin,

Ditto Chris! Whew! My frowney face and the puzzled brow is getting some relief here! lol

Alysin,

I thinkkkkk, that no child is going to “hell”. In fact, I am certain of that. Think, listen and discern folks. The whole story is not being told. The church has reached out to this family. Where, again, is the papa? the grandmother? the best friend? the autistic community that has a huge outreach program? Where are they??? lol

Alysin,

I think some of the bloggers are confused about what a caring church does and its responsiblility to meet the needs of ALL people that attend. Some may need special attention like the 13 yr old boy that should be addressed in a different setting than a full assembly where disruptive behavior in any sense takes away from addressing the needs of the many that are there that possibly has a physical or mental need just as much so as the boy and his family. Its a tough situation to say the least. One person was right in saying that the judge/magistrate must consider the request a serious threat to the public or person to issue a restraining order. All of gods children, old and young are prescious and deserve all the love the church, (which are the ones with Christ like unselfish love not a building), can give them, but a public assembly may not be what the child needs as much so as his parents. Hopefully they can resolve this as a loving body of believers in which they may have already tried to remedy this situation out of love and had no recourse other than to restrain them from assembly so all needs from others may be served also. I hope the family gets the help and love they so desperately need and deserve from all “real” Christians, not just in this church but in all bodies of believers.

Ms. Alisyn,

Wish I had read a few Blogs before I sent my 1st…WOW….He is still a child… Hey this is my 2nd blog.I know BIG DEAL… bye the bye Say Hello to Monkey-Boy…There is a cute story here to long
for this…I am laughin to hard….you all do a wonderfull job,keep it up.this includes those behind
the scene also..

Keep The Faith

I am married to someone who is mentally ill to the point of disability, so I believe that I can comment intelligently on this story.

First,I have to say first of all that we probably don’t know the whole story.

That being said, I have to say that IF the child did what they said he did, I have to agree with the church’s stance. It is up to the parents to make sure that the child is capable of behaving in an appropriate manner for the circumstances the parents bring them into. The parents do not have the right to subject other parisheners to dangerous situations. Whether the child in question intended to harm other children by hugging them is not the point, can he controll his strength to make sure that he doesn’t harm the other children? Can the parents not use Depends or a similar product to solve the urination problem? I know from experience that there is alot that can be done in these types of situations. I also know that neither I nor anyone else is entitled to subject others to dangerous behavior or unsanitary conditions.

i have a brother that is retarded. my mother takes him to church(mostly evening services when less people attend.) he is kind of unpridictable..he will be quite and all of a sudden let out a yell. or he likes to pace at times. usually he goes to the back of the church and pace back and forth.. paceing will last a couple of minutes sometimes)most of the time he will be quite when he does this. mom puts soft bottom shoes on him…now mom has attended this church since before my brother was born and ..he is now in his 50’s…and the older members have known my brother all his life. If mom misses to many services she gets flooded with calls making sure my brother is not the reason she isnt attending. she has never been made to feel he wasnt welcome. the minister has been known..there has been several over the years..to make a joke when he suddenly yells…like at least someone supports what i’m saying..or kelly did u mean to say amen! etc. church is a very important part of my mothers life and i cant imagine her being told because of my brother she couldnt attend. my mother is now 80 years old.

Understood your comments
But keep the faith does not apply to the BIBLE

Obamas said,
about Foreign Policy we have to get to the root of the problem,
who does that sound like, ding ding, ring a bell?[Carter, pastor Wright].
Sal

Alisyn – Yes, I saw that … And once again was surprised … For someone who’s trying to remain anonymous, I’ve been popping up in the media a lot lately … LOL Tell Doocy that I’m female and don’t drink alcohol … LOL

Did Gretchen seriously not know what Beer Pong is?? The expression on her face made it look like she had never heard of it before …

You guys should’ve had NASCAR’s All-Star winner Kasey Kahne on the show … so that you & he could compare notes on Skagit County …

Alysin,

The screen is jumping around and the cursor is actin’ funny..humm. We continue to ponder…can we assume that the sheriff was sent to the home to just maybe, keep any embarrassing confrontation at the church??? While we continue to assume allllllll this malicious intent and staying up all nite trying to figure out just how mean the community and the priest could be to this family…hummm??? lol

in my earlier comment i should have mentioned my brother is not subject to harm anyone…he actually avoids others. i might also point out mom sits the back of the church. if there are special services my brother goes to the nursery..as i said he isnt a danger and doesnt bother anyone.

As a mother of an 18-year old with autism, I know all too well the challenges of disruptive behaviors in public places and feel this parent’s anguish. As much as I disagree with how the church handled this incident, I also think that the mother’s expectation of parishioners to “understand autism” by excusing these behaviors is unreasonable — I would compare this to parents with a hysterically crying baby in a restaurant expecting other diners to tune out this behavior because babies cry when unhappy.

Was there a dialog between this mother and the church prior to the restraining order? I suspect there is more to this story than what is being reported.

I always ask for the non-kid section in a restaurant, so I am not a good judge of these things. However, it does seem that the priest could have been much more diplomatic and searched for alternatives. Maybe put some Depends on the kid and find something that might occupy his mind during that brief period in church. As so often is the case, there is probably something going on with all of this that we do not know.

Alysin,

And we have all celebrated the “children” who are special, and celebrated their presence at church, and hugged our best friend when the child was born, and prayed with the family and engaged in the raising of. This situation is not being told in toto. That is obvious. lol

Banning a person with special needs is an overreaction. The first thing to do is have the parents sit down with people in the church who have the most contact with him and explain to the others about Autism. This will help them better understand about Autism. Secondly it would be good if he sat near the back so that when he started to be disruptive he and one of his parents could quietly leave so he wasn’t disrupting others. I am not trying to generalize but people who do not have or work with kids with special needs have a harder time understanding them and some of the things they do ( I find this to be especially true in the education field!) Parents and others need to help educate the public about these kids and how to best integrate them as much as possinble into society.

Guess I do not understand how to post my views.I am sorry if anyone was hurt for my views.I am an American VET. That is where those words come from…I will not post again,but I will continue to watch..Again SORRY

Alysin,

And we continue to assume that all of the above was not done. Is fox and friends going to do a follow up on this story? Or is it going to just hang out there…as they so often do. It is not incumbent on “people” to know all things about all illnesses. I am assuming, again, that this congregation did get informed and discussions were conducted, and the parent of the “child” was uncooperative and inconsiderate, perhaps. We don’t know…but, that would have to be the case. If that is not the case, she wasn’t ever getting any solace from this community, so why is she there at all? I agree with the former post…find another community that better fits the needs of your considerable difficult circumstances. My daughter has been active in this community for years, both adult and children, and I have friends with special needs children. They have alllll been to my house for celebrations and just to visit, and I do not believe for one millisec that the church hasn’t tried to find a resolution to this problem. lol

Sonja…I was not and I was referring in general and not to you specifically…except for the right to attend issue. I love your comments, so keep them coming.

I too find this story as odd and at first thought that the church was over reacting; however, what would happen when or if this boys hurts someone while at the church? Since the church knows of this behavior and did nothing about it, could they be held responsible? With all the lawsuits out there, are they just protecting the church?

There are at least two sides to every news story.

Sonja – Your opinions are just as important as any and this tends to be a pretty friendly, tolerant group. This is a heavy topic and it evokes many emotions.

So, what happens after tomorrow’s primaries? Will Hillary just keep on going like that Ever Ready Rabbit? To me the longer this goes the less presidential Obama looks, but that doesn’t seem to be the popular view. His fans seem to be blinded by something and completely ignore any negatives about the guy. Strange election season for sure……..

Ah.and FOX is on and the jr senator from Illinois tries again to change the subject. Guess chaatising the “people” over thoughts regarding his wife, does keep everyone off the subject of 57 states and other incredible thoughts that have come out of his mouth these many months, as his do not touch is wearing thin. Better get used to it big boy as we the people just might have a lot to say…and it isn’t always nice!!!!

Sonja,

The bloggers here are pretty savvy. So I doubt anyone was actually hurt by your views..But if anyone was, it’s not your problem, don’t worry about it…You’re here to voice your opinion whatever it may be and we’re here to get yours and others perspectives on various subjects..

Regards

Very tough call on this one. If this young man has no control of his bladder I wonder if he wears adult diapers? Seems like that would help. But the church cannot allow him to physically endanger others – whether they be children or older adults.

Our church has had to “ban” certain children for a period of weeks because of physical violence to other children and unending streams of profanity. It is a difficult decision each time but necessary in some cases. Please note that the parents of these children do NOT attend church and use us as a baby-sitting service which is fine with us as long as their children are reasonably well-behaved and do not endanger other children. Keep in mind that when these children are disruptive no one learns and for most of these kids the only Bible teaching they receive is the two hours they are with us each week and if we allow that to be totally ineffective because of a few children then we are not fulfilling our responsibilities.

But still a tough and emotional call each time.

Marshall,

And we watch and wait anxiously for the drama to unfold. “His” group have been told over and over again, it does not matter. Those who can discern, will change their votes in November, and those who don’t, wouldn’t anyway. We hope the majority can listen, think and discern. We continue to wonder how on earth he got such good press to begin with, with no substantive questions attached to this “new” person who would be president. I guess we have all the answers now. He is/was anointed by the dem party, and that is the end of story. I was too old to think much of him to begin with. Age does have some benefits!!!! Yeppers, it does…lol

Let me change the subject once more.

Anyone else see “There Will be Blood” with Daniel Day-Lewis? If so, what did you make of it? He is no doubt an incredible actor, but I found it very difficult to sit through that movie and wouldn’t do it again. Did I miss something in the telling of this epic, or was it just kind of dull and long-winded from beginning to end?

Marshall,

Since I really think you are smart and paying attention, I will not spend my few s heckles to go see this movie. Now, how about Indiana Jones and Narnia? I am going to go see those two for sure and not wait to watch them on the very lg, but not lg enough screen at home. lol
The carnival ride is being discussed. How did this happen and will it happen again? Welllllllllllll yes, it will happen again and accidents do happen, especially at “carnival” events..hopefully the inspector in charge of these things was not guilty of not doing his job. We all hold our breath when we participate in these kind of things..the thrill of it all being worth the risk??? Humm?? I think so!!! lol

5/19/2008 10:14 AM

Alibloggers,

Perusing some entries I would like to say to Virginia – which entry was spot on? The OBF 2nd post or the entry about the priest and the autistic child?

James in Georgia- which entry to the Alisphere. I can’t help it – I like using terms like that and Aliblog, Alibloggers. BTW, they are not copyrighted (not by me but maybe by our hostess), therefore feel free to use them. I coined them to be used.

Sonja – don’t bow out. I have been on many “S” lists. I was totally frustrated with blogging and not seeing them posted. I must have said something right that was pleasing to the blogsisphere gods (Note lower case g). Has anyone reviewed the rules of this blog with you yet? I’ll reiterate:
1. Rule #1: It’s Alisyn Camerota’s blog, therefore make nice. Compliments are accepted graciously. Insults will get one a lot of hate mail.
2. Rule #2: When in doubt see Rule #1.

Got to go, Mrs. Penny is home today and she is expecting me to accomplish multiple tasks (i.e. the hammock is rolled up and in the vestibule).

Will Penny

The comments response has started to slow as the gurus continue to fix this prob. Or maybe this is the time of day, the flow gets so slow and conversation impossible, and too difficult for the busy life that is ever present. lol

Well Marshall…looks like it might be over for a while anyway. Always makes me sad when the conversation is over. I agree with whoever commented on the smart and well informed people that come to this most wonderful place to be. lol

Correction on my 8:49 post..as if anyone cares, but do!

I missed the part where the church obtained a “legal” restraining order on the kid..It’s probably constitutional then to warn the couple “at the end” of their driveway..I would still like to get the Judge’s call on this though..(Could it be a form of harrassment on the cops part?)

This is really sad. No matter what the church does, someone will probably point them out as “wrong”. It is quite easy to see both sides of the story and have compassion for each participant.

Jesus said “Suffer the little children to come unto ME for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven”. Sometimes I think these things come to us as a test to see if we read the Book.

They need to try sit down and see it they can come up with a solution where no ones loses or wins. It may be already to late for that. Each side maybe be too entreached in trying to “win”.

Good morning Alisyn,

The priest was right to ask that this child not attend services if he had been that disruptive. He could be ministered to privately by receiving Holy Communion at his home like the church does for shut ins.

She should consider visiting a different denomination and speak with the minister before she visits the church (for special accommodations).

A special class should have been set up for him. Of course this is difficult for small churches.

talk about being arrogrant! Obama cant keep his mouth shut. to try and tell the public/republicans that his wife’s comments are off limits is just plain nuts. actually i thought he sounded like a school boy talking about his girl friend. if she cant take the heat..then she should not have encouraged her husband to run.

Good morning – This is such a sensitive topic…..
I am a teacher of students with disabilities, and have taught several autistic students. I also go through many hours of training on a yearly basis to help me better serve autistic students in my classroom. Some autistic students do have severe meltdowns that endanger others in my classroom. In that case, the other students are removed from the room until the autistic student is again in control. This would be impossible in a church setting. While I sympathize with the boy and his family, I can see part of why the church had to ask this family to refrain from coming to church. One way that our church deals with students with disabilities is by having a special class for disabled students with a trained teacher. Before I could place blame on this church for banning this young man from services, I would have to know the severity of his autism and would have to know how the parents deal with outbursts and meltdowns. We have an autistic young man in our church that participates in programs, dramas and musicals with the other students his age. This takes a joint effort from the teachers and parents. Again, I sympathize with both parties in this debate.

I suspect the priest in that parish has had numerous talks with the parents of the Autistic young man before resorting to obtaining a Restraining Order.

I have attended Mass so many times when children have misbehaved and caused disruptions. Good, responsible parents will do their best to make their children quiet down but when they can’t, they will take their child or children outside. Many parents of small children usually sat in the back rows just in case they needed to make a fast exit with a crying child.

I cannot even imagine what it would be like to have a young man the size of the one discussed this morning to be flailing his arms, wetting himself, or being loud during a quiet service. Do we know if his parents are able to remove him from the service when things of that nature begins? Perhaps there is a special room in the church into which that family can go during Mass so they can still see and hear the Mass via closed circuit TV. This seems to work in court rooms when there is a very hostile/disruptive Defendant on trial.

People have a right to not be disgusted or threatened in their own church. The mother of this “child” may be willing to put up with this behavior at home but her neighbors don’t have to and her refusal to understand that little point is borne out by the necessity to get a restraining order against bringing her son to church.
Don’t inflict your problems on other people. You don’t have any right to do that.
You can also keep your unruly, screaming, barking, trouser wetting, deficating, urinating, nose-picking, unwashed pets and relatives at home and out of sight as well.
I’m fed up with that behavior and disregard for others. Everyone ELSE has rights too!!!! Not just you.

As a pastor, I would do everything possible to find a solution that would allow this mother and son to attend worship services. As others have mentioned we do not know all the details here.

If anything the church should be reaching out to this family to find a solution. It is obvious this mother needs help (nowhere is there the mention of a father). Maybe some of the members could make it their ministry to engage this family and develop a relationship whereby the son might be more comfortable with having people around him in the church who are not strangers to him, but are representing to him the love of Christ. A church family is not one hour on Sunday morning.

The whole restraining order thing is curious to me. I’m not believing it. Aren’t these orders usually served on the person being restrained? How else would they know who or where they are forbidden to go near?

Marshall…will post this one more time. I haven’t see that movie and will not go if you are not recommending it..save those sheckles for Indiana Jones and Narnia, perhaps? And Iron Man, of course. Thanks for the heads up! lol

Oh Joe….IF she is Catholic, there are many other parishes she could go to…and none of them will be able to handle her prob in the general congregation. Her circumstances are difficult, and she needs to seek solace in her faith more creatively. I assure you that the Catholic faith community is neither mean or malicious. They also have read “the book” and follow the tenants of faith as written down. Great comment, and something that could be considered for sure.

I go to church to worship and hear God’s word. I do get frustrated when I can’t hear the Word because of unruly children or babies that are crying. That is why there are nursuries and ‘cry rooms.’ The service can be heard via speaker in those rooms, but the rest of the congregation isn’t completely disrupted. It would sound like the church was taking a rather firm stance in getting the police involved. However, has this family pushed the limits and not shown respect for the rest of the congregation? A six-foot person weighing 225 pounds is not easily over-looked–even if he is only 13 years old! If this person is ‘urinating’ or ‘wetting his pants,’ I believe that would disturb many people. You can’t force an entire group to accept misbehaving when they’ve come to listen to God’s Word. I’ve seen many parents not exhibiting parenting skills because they are ‘in church.’ Parenting doesn’t stop once you walk in a church. Some people think that if they discipline in church, they’ll be looked-down upon by others. I see common sense and mutual respect missing in the whole story. Autism is a very terrible disorder. There are solutions to this story if both sides would work together.

If the young man is just wetting his pants then the parents should just make him wear depends. However, if he is in fact urinating in public & being disruptive then the parents need to seek different ways of dealing with him. It is sad that he is autistic, but I do think at his size & weight he could be dangerous. My daughter works with autistic students & she has been hit in the face & puts up with a lot of abuse. She does it because she wants to help these kids. Some autistic people can get very violent. I don not feel that people attending church should have to sit there & be frightened of what this person may do.

She should continue going to the church. That is outrageous for the church to not allow her to go with her autistic son. If he is being disruptive, she should be respected to use her best judgement to remove him from the congregation either to the foyer or some separate area even if it is outside of the church. As a parent with young children, I know she is not really getting much out of the church service, but at least she is trying to go and be a part of the church. I’ll bet she gets some evil looks too. She should be commended for doing her best to attend service and those who frown upon it, be it those in the congregation or the pastor, should be ashamed and rethink their faith. In the great words of Pope Benedict. God Bless America.

I have a 6′ 255lb severely autistic child who is so warmly welcomed in our church. He is almost 17 years old now, but when he was 3 years old and we were Catholic he was rejected by the church. We wanted him in Sunday school and even paid for an aid to be with him. the Sunday School teacher, who was a special ed teacher, didn’t want him in the class because he was “different”. We pushed the issue and went to our Father and he responded is such a over reactive way. He started talking to me about his visit to a mental institution and how horrifing this was !!!!!!! What does this have to do with a 3 year old child.
Do to the overreaction of our chuch and rejection of him, he began crying when we would try to take him to Sunday school or even Mass.
We now are going to a Bible Believing church called Cornerstone here in Simi Valley Califnornia and not only feel excepted, but loved and embraced by all members.
Autism is in epidemic levels and so are other behavior problems and disorders. Putting this child in a private area is segregation and usless this child is screaming and yelling, which it doesn’t sound like he is, we need to be more understanding. Unfortunately, people who are not familiar with autism are fearful and just want us to go away. They also over react to him wetting his pants, saying he is urinating and spitting. Sounds like they just want him to go away. I pray this family will find another church, most likely not Catholic, to accept their precious boy. He can offer alot of blessings to those who are willing to get to know and understand him and children like him. And most important, accept and embrace him…………..
I am so glad my church has embraced our son and our family. I have 4 children total.
This was our experience with the Catholic church as well though, so it doesn’t suprise me.
Denise Torres

society obviously has alot to learn in regards to autistic children (no matter the size 13 is still considered a child in a court of law) Now being the parents of an autistic girl we know exactly what this mother is going through,and feel the pain that she is experiencing.The world is so ignorant of autism that there is no help out there for these kids, so there will be disruptions.If you talked english and was dropped into a spanish world would you not be disruptive because noone could understand you?Some of these comments just blew my wife and I away,so ignorant and non compassinate world we are in.As far as this priest goes god created us all as we are with his very hands,do you think for 1 minute that god will kick this child out or put a restraining order on this kid from heaven?sad sad day if that is how it goes,heaven is supposed to be a big party with dancing and singing,not sit there and shutup so I can hear,pitty on our society and you know what it will only get larger with Autistic children coming in,people hate change and this proves it beyond a doubt,people better get used to it because more and more are being diagnosed with autism.I pray for this catholic priest and his church.

I wonder if Jesus were giving the Mass what would he do? How would Jesus feel about this child and their family? Would he send the police to prevent them from attending service because others might not enjoy mass do to the disruption?
It is amazing to me how many people consider themselves Christians. Won’t those words Jesus said that many will call me Lord, but I will say I do not know you, ring true. You sure see it from the comments I have read so far.
I feel so blessed that my 17 year old severely autistic son is welcomed in our church, Cornerstone, here in Simi Valley, California. Even on bad days we are not rejected. They sure follow Christ, which unfortunately so many who call themselves Christians do not.
It is a sign of a fallen world………
Denise Torres
Simi Valley, CA

The story of the autistic child does not have all the facts. I have come to understand that the parish priest has been attempting to deal with this situation for three years. I understand he has offered a separate room for the family, but they may not be as understanding. This is more likely an unfortunate situation, and the real insight here is what WE as a community can do to help families with problem children. It is much easier for us to jump upon the church, without facts, and expect them to deal with problems, when really we need to step up.

I saw Iron Man over the weekend and thought it was one of the silliest flicks I’ve seen in a long time..I give it ♪♪♪ out of ♪♪♪♪♪..If it wasn’t for the outstanding performance by Jeff Bridges and the beautifulness of Gwyneth Paltrow, I’d give it just two notes..(Too many Crash, BOOMS)..If you’re into that sort of thing ( and judging by the box office many of you are), this movie could be for you!!

…and alas, Robert Downy’s Jrs. talents were squandered..

All of course, in my own opinion…

OT: Barrack Obama scolded us yesterday for driving SUV’s and for keeping our homes at a constant “comfortable” 72 degrees..(That’s not the way to win over the American voter)

Note: He was in Oregon, so I suspect that’s what the audience wanted to hear..

Most churches have crying rooms where mothers can nurse their babies or take them when they get fussy, there is always audio feed and usually video or one way windows. I’ve spent many hours in crying rooms during the years of raising 6 children, no one had to send me to the crying room, I chose to take a potentially disruptive child there out of consideration for other worshipers. Now, after 20 years spent raising an autistic grandchild, I can sympathize with the mother but she and her son are not the only parishoners in need of the solace provided by the church service. This mother has a rough road to travel and demanding everyone else to bow to her wishes won’t make things any easier for her or her son. We all have problems but to expect others to suffer in silence and put aside their wants and needs because her problems are more visible is selfish. Autistic children have a great capacity to understand even if they are unable to vocalize their thoughts well, what is her son learning from her? That he has the right to endanger a fragile elderly person, urinate anywhere without protecting the property of others or considering the person cleaning up his mess? Perhaps the priest was concerned for the spiritual and physical welfare of others in the congregation, his way of handling the situation seems heavy handed but we don’t know what went on before this.

It’s easy to point a finger at the pastor and suggest that he’s hardhearted. So; how bout a test. invite this family to you set for a session of Fox and Friends and let me know how it works out.

Hmm – the first shall be last and the last shall be first – I’d be worried if I was the priest and anyone in the congregation. Also, I seem to remember a rule or something – do unto others.

The comments continue to post. That is nice. The church, any church, large or small, is not obligated to provide a “special” place for circumstances that are personal and private to a family. They usually do have a “crying” room, for parents to take children that might be upset. This is not about an upset child. This is about a special needs child, in the body of an adult person. It is unreasonable, as badly as we all feel for this woman, to expect extraordinary measures to be taken. Again, I ask. Where is the father, grandmother/father, sister, brother, best friend, the autistic out reach community…where are these people? lol

Tom,

Why do you assume evil looks? Just curious…I don’t at all. I go to a huge church, and there are large families present, and I had a large family. I have been personally involved with “special” needs adults and children. There is more to this story. I hope fox and friends follows up. We will all be watching, for sure, as we are all huge fans!!!

This story breaks my heart for several reasons. I have an eight year old autistic son who is prone to having “melt downs” in public — it can be distressing, to say the least, to those around us and extremely uncomfortable for our family, but luckily one place we always feel welcome is our church. It is where we receive love and acceptance not JUDGEMENT. Our church has an organization called In His Image Disability Services and it recogizes that all people are created in the image of God and deserve compassion and dignity and it serves to meet the needs of the families of those that have members with disabilites. My heart aches for this mother that there was not one person in this church of believers to step out and help her in some way. In our church we have a special room and special trained attendants for just such occasions not just a cry room made for infants but a place where the sensory needs of autistic, MR, or multiply-handicapped can be met. The christians should lead the way – our banner should be love not hypocracy

Having worked for many years in special ed, I say this is HORRIBLE treatment, especially coming from a church. There are ways to accommodate retarded children, no matter what their problems are. That child didn’t ask to come into this world in the shape he’s in, but he’s here; and it is our responsibility to accept him. His mother should find another church, talk with the priest and powers-that-be about her problem. Surely, she can find a church that’s based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.

bad behavior =bad parents. This kid could not be controlled in public, so don’t take him there you boneheads! Use common sense.

I am absolutely appalled at the parishoners of the Catholic church in Minnesota. I just saw the story on Fox news about the boy with Autism.
I cried for him and his parents this morning.
I cried, because my daughter, also has started having “meltdowns” during puberty. She has Cerebral Palsy, and mild Autism.
I would like all of these people; who I am sure are otherwise good, compassionate people; to know that their attitudes and actions have further isolated millions of families, who need help.
I have also worked with this population for years. I have dealt with children both young and teenage. I am very aware of the dangers and situations that can and do arise. These people do have legitimate concerns.
However; this boys rights and welfare are of way more concern to me– and the Lord; than these folks–who obviously have the WRONG idea of what it means to be in church in the first place.
Did they go to the parents?
Has anyone even offered this family help? EVER?
I pray for those people and their selfish, misguided hearts. This boy SHOULD have been considered part of the church family in the first place. I defend the right of these parents to fight for the right of their child to be in church. What is happening in this church? Are these people there for their own selfish reasons?
God said to “Bring the children to me”
And He didn’t just mean the ones who are perfect, or best behaved.
It’s not about “you” or “your comfort” or “your image” while in church. It’s about Christ and trying to be more “Christ-like”.
This congregation has obviously forgotten why they are there.
There are ways to deal with situations involving Autistic children of all ages, big or small. Has any one of these people even bothered to find out? Do these people even care?
I feel absolutely sick inside, thinking of what my child has to face in this world with people like this. EVERYTHING I am able to do for my daughter comes from my faith in God. He gives me strength every day to deal with the hardships of raising a child with this condition.
Isolation from healthy, positive experiences is one of the MOST devastating challenges we face as parents of these kids.
Come out of your comfort zones people! Even the Lord welcomes all children.
There should be long lines at the confessional in this church!!!!

Valerie Werner

I think this is disturbing, but it does not suprise me. I have read quite a few commnets and while I understand that this boy’s behavior could be disruptive to the lecture or sermon, it is not fair to punish him or his mother for an illness he can’t control and didn’t ask for.

As a priest, he should be more undesrstanding and he should be setting a positive example on how to treat this woman and her son.

I also think that, being that everyone has a right to go there, instead of making a joke out of her and her son the chruch should have put aside a “special room”. Sure – it does outcast them a little bit, but doing that would have been better than opening a restraining order and having it broadcasted all over the news.

This woman and her son were made a spectacle and that isn’t fair.

Only God may judge the motives of the mother, the child, the priest and the parishioners at this church. This is a deeply personal and emotionally charged issue. From the standpoint of a mother of a child with autism, I can certainly relate to the mother’s frustration. There are many ignorant and intolerant people in this country, and God knows, they need my Lord and Savior as much as I do, or my daughter does. I pray the power of His healing grace and mercy on these people in Bertha, Minnesota. Take this opportunity, each of you, to learn more about how to help a child and a parent at your church who has a disability. I take that as the message of this story and I thank you Alisyn for sharing it.

Father Jonathan was on ‘Live Desk’ by phone and was giving the Church’s side of the story. He said that the Priest had offered the family the use of another room at the church so they could view the services but be seperate from the rest of the church members. The family refused the offer.
The Priest also offered the family their own pew, seperate from the others. They also refused that offer.
The Priest and Church finally felt they had no other alternative than to not allow the young man back. The Priest and church members felt he was a danger to their safety and too much of a distraction to continue without some change and the family refused all offers.

I grew up in Bertha and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and the Race family (including Adam) attended the church as well. If the church didn’t want to accept him there, he wouldn’t have been allowed to attend for the many years he’s been there.

There are a lot of details missing. There is more to the story than him urinating and spitting. He has hit, bitten, and shoved others also. He’s 200+ pounds which gives him an advantage to hurt someone smaller.

The church did try to resolve the “safety issue” of Adam Race. According to parish members of that church, the priest did offer a solution by allowing Adam and an adult to worship in the lower level of the church with a live video stream and communion being brought to them. However, the family would not agree to this solution.

I know this is not an issue of Adam being autistic. The church has tried to provide a safe environment for the parishioners as well as a place for Adam to worship. I agree with Carol Race’s statement (www.wcco.com) that “Whether it’s the Catholic or another church, churches need to be aware of the needs of special needs families and even just normal kids that everyone is welcome in God’s house”. However, I just don’t think that should compromise the safety of others.

The question I ask that someone else also mentioned, what do you want the Catholic church in Bertha to do? Do you want them to wait until someone is severely injured and then get upset because they did nothing to protect people?

The point is the church is not being insensitive. They have been trying to resolve this issue for quite some time.

5/20/2008 12:11 AM

Alibloggers,

Did you see the photos of that US Marine. Quintessential Beautiful American Marine (a BAM, and I do not mean the “broad” ones). GOD BLESS HIM and all of our American fighting men and women.

I served 21 years in the Army. Prior to graduation from HS I considered the USMC. My father vehemently opposed it – USN, WWII. When I see pictures from WWII I don’t understand the animosity that developed between the USN and the USMC. BTW, I served with a USMC Master Sergeant who used to crack me up with this explanation. He referred to his service as the “bastard child of the Navy.” It still makes me laugh.

Then I was going to be a police officer in a major metro city – my mother put the kibosh on that plan. My father suggested the Coast Guard. I don’t know why but that did not appeal to me.

I enlisted in the Army. That does not mean I have no love for the Army – I do. It is just that in retrospect, if I had to do it all over again – I WOULD HAVE BEEN A MARINE!

Will Penny

5/20/2008 12:11 AM

Alli,

Does the “Whippoorwill” sound I hear after I double click my latest entry mean that my entry has gone directly to the Digital Bit Bucket (DBB)? On the other hand, does it mean it has successfully transmitted and is in the queue to be posted?

Will Penny

5/20/2008 12:22 AM

Alli,

I am going nucking futs over unrecorded entries. I just put in a long shift at the salt mine and I came home hoping to find some responses. Responses are not possible if the entries are sent to the circular file. I suggest you have the Fox legal team make life at Word Press miserable until they get this Aliblog running like a finely tuned engine.

Your ardent admirer,

Will Penny

this is just another shinning example of good ole christians showing their complete understanding of compassion.

WELL I FIND IT INTERESTING THAT THE CATHOLIC CARDINALS ALLOW KNOWN PEDIFILES TO BE PRIESTS TO BE IN THE CHURCH AND JUST MOVE THEM AROUND OFTEN BUT YET WONT LET A MENTALLY HANDICAPPED CHILD IN. DO THEY REALLY KNOW HOW MANY THAT ARE SITTTING IN THE PEWS THAT ARE A DANGER TO THEMSELVES AND OTHERS? I THINK NOT. GOD NEVER TURNED ANYONE AWAY AND THATS GODS HOUSE.

Three things to fix the church problem:

1. Arrange special seating.

2. Have everyone learn to adjust.

3. Take it for what it is.
============================
For better or worse-
We have to be human first.
.
Mary Elizabeth Rumsey
Three by M.E./Rhymes of the Times
.
P.S. Alisyn, just drifted away for a bit…but
had to come back to Fox and Friends. The
show is just too good to stay away from.
I need the info and the good laughs too.

The priest also has an obligation to protect other parishioners. The family should respect that decision. Having worked at a Catholic Church in the past, I cannot imagine that the priest just out of the blue took out a restraining order. I’m sure every avenue had been looked at to solve this issue before it came to the restraining order.

Obama said that he will lose Kentucky because of Fox News,
you got to be kidding me, he didnt even campaign there like he didnt campaign in West Virginia, think about it, Obama called them uneducated people thats why they didnt vote for him, this guy is something else,
Clinton will beat him just like West Virginia and close enoungh in Oregon,
dont count her out, she is going to the convention, its not over.
Sal

Alisyn,
Obama said that he will lose Kentucky because of Fox News,
you got to be kidding me, he didnt even campaign there like he didnt campaign in West Virginia, think about it, Obama called them uneducated people thats why they didnt vote for him, this guy is something else,
Clinton will beat him just like West Virginia and close enoungh in Oregon,
dont count her out, she is going to the convention, its not over.
Sal

This is a disgrace. What kind of example is the Church making of itself in the Community. What’s sad is the Church is supposed to be a sanctuary for trouble, instead it chose to be the trouble. It just sent theCommunity a message that to have a disability is wrong. the Church needs to remember that they are an example for the community, and that the People will look to the Church as an example on how to behave.

I would like to know how you would feel if this child sat behind your daughter in church and out of the blue groped or fondled your daughter in church? or urinate on your back?? These people have to tie him down with a leash or sit on him to control him. He is totally out of control worse than a wild animal at times. His mother probably doesn’t even have him on any medicine to help himself.

These people were given choices, they could sit in the crying room with him, or in the basement and watch mass via TV, or the priest even offered to go out to their house to have mass and they would not accept this. This was the last choice for the priest before anyone got seriously hurt or the church got sued for this. (You know everybody wants to sue the Catholic Church)

So please before you side with these people get the whole story. Like the problems the schools have had with them. Also, they had a foreign exchange student living with them, but I believe she has finally been removed.

Please investigate TOTALLY before going on with this terrible issue. I believe the parents are at fault.

MS. ALISYN,

I SEE FROM READING TODAY, I LOGGED OFF TO SOON AND DID NOT READ ENOUGH.AGAIN,SORRY,WITH SUGAR ON TOP.DO NOT TAKE ANYTHING I SAY TO HURTFULL OR OUT OF THE WAY .THIS IS JUST MY BORN TRUE( YES) TRUE BLONDE GOT TO KNOW ME WAY.
I DID,AND HAS MY FAMILY ,WOULD AGAIN, AGAIN DEFEND.I WILL GO TO THE MAT FOR EVERYONE NOMATTER WHO THAT IS JUST ME .

I SEND RAINBOWS…HEY,WHO DOES NOT LIKE RAINBOWS?

(I’M IN SCHOOL HERE OKAY?TOLD YOU I WAS NEW.I STAND IN CORNER)hee hee funny??

MR.PENNY ,

YOU FOR YOUR MESSAGE.NEED TO GO TO SCHOOL ON THIS SUB.

REGARDS

The reality is that if you have a full grown man child who spits, urinates, drags small children onto his lap (his mom says he likes weight in his lap) has tried to run out of the church, has had to have his parents try to hold him down, had his parents acutally restrain him by tying up his hands and feet to keep him in church, etc., you need to consider other options for your child.

The Priest involved offered to hold Mass for her family in the fellowship hall and even come to their home. He has worked with several different agencies trying to find some way to accomodate them. The family has refused everything. They want only to come to church with their son for the “community” of it.
To expect a Mass to be repeatedly interrupted by a fully grown person who cannot be physically controlled is asking too much of any parish. Mass is a place of worship and reverence, not a brawl a minute. It is frightening to the children and to the elderly.

It is a sad situation but, most parents would realize that a relationship with God does not have to take place in the church, especially if the Priest is willing to come to your home and conduct mass. The parents are the selfish ones here.

Preists will do whatever they want. My Dad was banned from our Catholic church because he was too helpful. The preist didn’t like the fact that my Dad didn’t want to be paid to teach Sunday School. He literally put his hands on my Dad’s chest and pushed him out of mass. In court they didn’t have proof that the preist pushed him. However the preist did admit that he told my dad to leave mass and that he is not welcome in his own parrish.

I have an autistic 7 year old we have been through alot with my son but if he was hurting others then i can understand where the church is comeing from. I also understand where his mother is comeing from. Its had not to feel like an outcast when your son acts up in public, People stare and make comments. Just a suggestion that might have been tried is I put my son in a behavior hospital to get his medication right it was hard but it really did help my son. Hope everything works out for the family I know its hard

I just wanted to add my 2 cents. I grew up in Bertha MN. My family has attended mass at St Josephs for as long as I can remember. Even tho I am grown up and moved away my parents still attend mass there. Believe me when I say that that the media has only heard 1 side of the story. The church, for one reason or antoher, has decided not to come forth with more details concerning the situation. This isn’t a ‘new’ issue in the church, it has been going on for years. It’s very sad that it has come to banning the family, I agree with that. However, the family is hiding alot more then what the media is reporting as to how they are raising thier son. Please keep an open mind when reading what the media is reporting concerning this matter.

I want to share the point of view of the parishioners. I am one. I have been a member of this church my whole life… the Race’s have been members for over ten years. We have embraced the family and helped them and ministered to them for over ten years. We LOVE this family. I particularly have a fondness for the two youngest girls. My heart breaks when I think that they will not be coming to our Masses because of this hurtful situation.
It also breaks my heart to have to say that as Adam has grown so large and is entering puberty, him behaviors truly have become violent and uncontrollable. His parents and teenage brother are the primary caregivers. And, when Adam is climbing over pews or bolting out of the door or getting into other people’s cars (in short, whenever it is appropriate or needed), other parishioners (the big strong men) do step in and help the family in controlling Adam (as much as that is even a possibility).
I hate to contradict the article or posts here, but the family has not taken advantage of our crying room for many years. They have a pew reserved for them in the back of the church. Our church building has a capacity for about 175 people, and as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister, I have the advantage of seeing the whole church. They are not inconspicuous – they sit in their pew. In fact, the crying room was one of the options that the church offered – along with mediation with an autism specialist to find other things that could help. The family refused all of the church’s offers.
We are a VERY small church. We truly did offer all that we could before it came to this. Our priest is miserable that it came to this. Our congregation stands behind this decision. We have been working with this family and with autism for ten years. We are not afraid of autism. We are not uneducated. We have other autistic parishioners. This is a tragic and isolated incident that has taken over a year of discussion and offers of help.
Please pray for our parish and for the family. Pray that hearts will be softened – the truth will be acknowledged – that understanding and love will prevail.

As someone who has worked with handicapped and autistic people, I have a couple thoughts to share. The autistic people I worked with all had an inability to communicate. The things they do, although they may seem strange at times, are their attempts at communication. My opinion is this, if this priest would spend some time with this person, and build a relationship, he may then be able to understand what this person is trying to say and the feelings he is trying to convey.

This boy could be urinating out of fear, and the physical contact could be from fear as well. The trick is to somehow make this person feel comfortable and unafraid. Maybe it’s the crowd of people at church that makes him feel as though he needs to behave in this way. I’m not going to say that I have the answers, but I just think that these are some things to take into consideration. Autistic people are not mean spirited, or violent with the intent of hurting someone just to hurt them. I think that some research should be done by this priest, and some more understanding and consideration needs to be shown. But hey, this is just my opinion, and I could also be way off base…

I have an autistic grandson and know how difficult it can be, but if he starts acting up in church or anywhere else we take him outside…It is not fair for the other people around you to have to be disturbed by the child, especially in church…In this case I feel the church could have found a better way rather than calling the police…