About the Project
The aim of the Theology & Neurodiversity Project is to equip the church to be a place of belonging for people of all neurotypes. The project does this by:
Fostering constructive, interdisciplinary conversations around theology, ministry, and neurodiversity. The project draws on the theological disciplines and engages with educational theory and practice as well as research in the social and human sciences.
Providing practical resources to support theological education and faith formation with and by all members of the body of Christ. The project is grounded in the conviction that each person has unique gifts to offer in ministry.
By better understanding the strengths and challenges of various neurotypes, congregations, church leaders, and theological educators are better equipped to foster communities in which all people truly belong.
Why theology and neurodiversity?
As a doctoral student researching faith formation amid mental health challenges, I care deeply about forming congregations to be places of belonging for everyone.
But in all my conversations with recent seminary graduates, longtime ministers, and theological educators, I noticed that many leaders felt unprepared to cultivate positive environments for neurodivergent learners.
When I had the opportunity to propose my own course at Princeton Seminary, I wanted to fill this gap in our theological education. I had the privilege of teaching Educational Ministry and Neurodiversity in the spring semester of 2021.
Now, drawing on the creative insights of my students and the practical wisdom of my fellow neurodivergent ministers, scholars, and educators, this project is my attempt at bringing the course’s subject matter to the church at large.
Michael Paul Cartledge is a PhD candidate in practical theology at Princeton Theological Seminary. His research focuses on educational ministry with persons suffering from depression. Michael Paul has served as a youth worker, worship leader, and Christian educator. Originally from Central Florida, he and his spouse, Samara, live in Princeton with their four children.
About the Course
The Theology and Neurodiversity Project grew out of the course Educational Ministry and Neurodiversity. In this course, students explored how to foster healthy environments for persons of all neurotypes by reflecting on the unique strengths and challenges of persons with learning disabilities, ADHD, autistic spectrum conditions, intellectual disabilities, and emotional and behavioral challenges.