Why one might ask would Tourette Syndrome cause a separation from Church, as this is a question I ask myself everyday. Anyone familiar with Tourette's is already aware of the disruptive nature of this condition, and it is even plausible that the resulting symptoms may be unaccepted in the workplace, the movie theater, or the library just to name a few. Why; however, would it be equally unacceptable in the Church? As a child of God I should be allowed to worship him in his own house, but the ignorance and discrimination that occurs in a typical Church Congregation precludes me from doing so. I have interviewed many pastors with expectations that I would be welcomed in their Sunday Services, but their responses have always been quite alarming.
Doesn't it seem perplexing that an individual with this horrible affliction should even have to ask permission to attend church? I have pointed this out to several ministers, but their outlook seems to follow a common thread as follows (as spoken by the clergy):
1.) You are welcome at my church; however, if the disruption causes a stir amongst the congregation, we may have a real problem on our hands.
2.) Oh, so you have Tourette Syndrome. I understand that condition, but you don't shout profanities do you? (Does he really understand this disability).
3.) Feel free to come to church on Sunday, We'll just let the Lord figure it out.
4.) If you come to our church, we can put you in a sound proof booth.
5.) If you come to our Sunday Services we can lay hands on you and anoint you with oil. Will everyone please realize that Tourette's is not Demonic Possession.
Considering that I am a Christian, my life has been very difficult with the void of a stable church in my life. But if this is the attitude of other "Christians", I will continue to worship God in the comfort of my own home. Many advances have been made in the public awareness of TS and most individuals understand it, or at least have heard of it. Where have all the Christians been during these public service announcements? It pains me to say that when it comes to worshipping the Lord, please accept me the way I was created or I will maintain a relationship with God in private. If anyone that reads this post attends a church alongside someone with Tourette, please send me a comment with suggestions as to how it is managed. If not, please realize that there are many individuals in this same predicament that are missing out on something that should be a guaranteed right
