Farewell to the Autism Pastor
I found out today that Lamar Hardwick, also known as the Autism Pastor, has died. He has been very public with his struggle with cancer and has demonstrated bravery right until the end.
I did not know Lamar well and I never met him in person. We communicated a few times and I interviewed him for for research I was doing on autistic pastors, of which he is the most well known.
What I appreciated about Lamar was his openness, not just about his cancer but his autism as well. It takes courage to reveal an autism diagnosis to a congregation as it can lead to rejection and judgement. Lamar revealed that one can be austic and a dynamic pastor that loves their congregation.
I read three of his books and was impressed by all of them. The disability theology world can be tricky as it is so easy to offend. Lamar was able to present a way forward for churches that was practical and respectful. His added work on the connection with racism has also been helpful
You can find his books at his Amazon authors page (Amazon affiliate link).
Lamar was a unique voice in the world of autism and the church and thankfully his voice continues with his writings. We needed to hear his message I hope people who have not yet encountered Lamar, will discover him through his books.
We pray for his family and friends. The loss is real. But the impact remains.
