Autism and Holy Orders: How to help seminarians with autism become effective priests
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“Thirty years ago, St. John Paul II outlined four “pillars” that are essential in a seminarian’s preparation for the ministry and life of a priest: human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation. He intentionally began with human formation for the following reason: “The whole work of priestly formation would be deprived of its necessary foundation if it lacked a suitable human formation” (Apostolic Exhortation, Pastores Dabo Vobis, 43). Deacon Sutton applies this key concern of JP II as it pertains to assisting seminarians with autism, a developmental disorder that may be overlooked or misunderstood. I have consulted with Deacon Sutton on human formation issues for more than 10 years, and I have seen his insights applied in concrete situations. Vocation directors, seminary formators, and bishops will appreciate his professional and practical insights. I highly recommend Autism and Holy Orders.”
—Most Rev. Mark L. Bartchak, Bishop of Altoona-Johnstown
“Dr. Sutton has done a tremendous service to all who minister in religious formation and to the Church at large. Every vocation is a gift from God and, now more than ever, dare not be squandered. This book masterfully identifies autism not as an insurmountable barrier to a genuine vocation, but as a condition that can in most cases be easily managed for the benefit of the person, his religious community, and the Church.”
— Archabbot Martin Bartel, St. Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, Pennsylvania