Now Available—BMA Pastor Writes Autism Ministry Book

By JORDAN TEW
BPH Executive Director

Baptist Publishing House is pleased to announce the release of “Ministry Across the Spectrum: Autism, Faith, and the Local Church” by biblical counselor W. Russell Threet, pastor of West Park, Ozark, Arkansas. This timely resource addresses one of the most overlooked mission fields in the church today: individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the families who love and care for them.
 
Drawing from personal experience as both a pastor and a parent of an autistic child, Threet writes with clarity, compassion and theological depth. The book explores autism from a biblical worldview and provides churches with practical tools to better welcome, disciple and support ASD families within the life of the local congregation. “Many churches genuinely want to help but feel unsure or unprepared,” Threet explains. “This book is meant to be a starting point—offering simple, faithful steps so that families affected by autism can truly feel at home in the body of Christ”.
 
“Ministry Across the Spectrum” walks readers through real-life church scenarios involving three fictional families who represent different points on the autism spectrum. Through these stories, pastors, church members and parents gain insight into common challenges surrounding Sunday school, worship services, church events, evangelism, counseling, membership and more. Each chapter concludes with practical applications tailored to pastors, people in the pew and autism families.
 
Endorsements from church leaders highlight the book’s impact:
 
“Bold, convicting and clear… After reading this book, the church will no longer have an excuse for neglecting this part of the community”. — Dr. Clif Johnson, pastor of Garrett Memorial, Hope, Arkansas
 
“This book will help churches to love, evangelize and disciple autism families in a way they never thought possible”. — Jordan M. Tew, executive director of Baptist Publishing House
 
“This book is an excellent resource for believers seeking to minister effectively to those impacted by autism.” — Bart Herrington, pastor of South Main Missionary, Malvern, Arkansas
 
The book also includes helpful appendices with basic training material, communication tips, sensory considerations and sample checklists for churches, teachers, greeters and parents—making it a hands-on guide for immediate use. Every church needs a copy of this ministry manual.
 
Order at baptistpublishinghouse.com | 888-727-8715

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