Local man speaks to Knights at Super Bowl party on day of prayer for autism spectrum disorders

By Tanya Connor
The Catholic Free Press

SHREWSBURY – It was Super Bowl Sunday and Autism Sunday. And, an opportunity for a local Catholic to tell his fellow Knights and their guests about challenges he and others on the autism spectrum face, and headway being made.
Gregory J. Rosen, of St. Mary Parish and the Knights of Columbus Adelphi Council 4181, spoke briefly last Sunday at the Knights’ Super Bowl party at their council quarters on South Quinsigamond Avenue.  
He noted that the second Sunday in February is the the International Day of Prayer for Autism Spectrum Disorders.  
“Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave,” says the National Institute of Mental Health website nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd. 
Autism can bring about isolation at work, in families and at church, Mr. Rosen said. Autistic persons might become overwhelmed, have a meltdown and therefore not be welcomed.  
Churches need training in working with them so they won’t be overwhelmed, and can involve them in Mass, so people can be brought to Christ, he said. He said being an usher helps stimulate him and keep meltdown factors in check.
Police also need training, and he’s proud of helping get the Blue Envelope Program implemented, he said, showing listeners his envelope. Autistic drivers put their license, registration and contact information in a blue envelope, which has guidelines for communicating with them on its exterior, to help officers adapt their approach and improve interactions, says the website mass.gov/info-details/blue-envelope-program. 
Getting a job can be difficult for autistic persons, but companies can get tax credits for hiring them, and non-profit organizations which have connections with businesses can also help, he said.  
He also mentioned fundraising, which he has helped with, that makes special programs possible.  
“We’re called upon as believers in Christ to bring the Gospel to everybody and to help others,” he told The Catholic Free Press, explaining why he works to improve things for others on the autism spectrum.