In this book, writer, parent, and spiritual director Kathleen Deyer Bolduc - - with honesty and humor, wisdom and wit - - invites the caregivers of children with disabilities to steep themselves in Scripture and self-reflection.

"Kathy Bolduc masterfully weaves together her stories of living life with her son Joel while holding the hand of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The challenges, joys, and learning that have filled her life because of Joel's presence are artfully presented in a way that will inform and encourage the reader. I see this book not only as a valuable resource for family members living with autism, but a necessary part of our church libraries as we all learn to better understand and include our brothers and sisters in Christ." --Barbara J. Newman, CLC Network church consultant, and author of Autism and Your Church

The book is at once affirming and dares to speak the truth: When disability strikes parents and families grieve. Her account affirms that God is loving and provides us with the strength to face the darkest hours, bringing us to a place of greater compassion, love and joy.

In this practical handbook, the author described how to welcome and minister to families of children with disabilities. The author discusses theology and disability, the grief process some parents experience, and the impact of disabilities on family systems.

Along the way we realized we are not alone. Our lives, though not the ones we imagined, have given us new purpose and meaning. Our children have something unique and beautiful to offer the world. And to us. From creating a new normal for the holidays to re-thinking sibling relationships, from asking "why?!" to how to cope moving forward, Life on the Spectrum faces the reality of living with and loving our autistic children from a perspective of faith. Each chapter begins with a Scripture that has become dear to us, shares our stories, exploring how God's truth can actually be lived out in the messiness of our lives on the spectrum, and ends with questions designed to help us reflect, rethink, and ultimately grow closer to Christ. Come on this journey with us. Be encouraged. You aren't alone either. Life on the Spectrum is a masterpiece! If you are feeling stressed out, stuck, or frustrated with the daily demands and difficulties of raising a child on the Autism Spectrum, this is a MUST READ! These stories are real and raw, written with unabashed honesty and unashamed human fragility. Every page offers a new, hope-filled perspective that will keep you moving forward. You will find refreshment…a renewed sense of peace and purpose as you care for those struggling with spectrum disorders. Each chapter ends with thought provoking questions, leading you to find God’s help and hope as you lean into His sovereign care. More than anything, you will feel understood because these folks have been exactly where you are today. COLLEEN SWINDOLL-THOMPSON Mother of an adult with autism and other disabling conditions Director of Reframing Ministries, Insight for Living