The restored gospel of Jesus Christ, as found in the Book of Mormon and taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offers profound hope and belonging to every child of God. In a world increasingly aware of the diversity of the human mind, the gospel provides a framework of compassion, inclusion, and divine purpose for individuals who are neurodivergent—including those on the autism spectrum, those with ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive variations. As the Church grows in understanding, the teachings of the Book of Mormon can guide leaders and members in embracing and ministering to both high-functioning and more severely impacted individuals in ways that are Christlike, dignifying, and spiritually nourishing.
To understand neurodivergence in a gospel context, we first need to recognize that the term neurodivergent encompasses a wide range of neurological differences that affect communication, social interaction, learning, and behavior. High-functioning neurodivergent individuals often blend into typical social settings but may still experience sensory overwhelm, anxiety, or challenges in church participation. Others may be more profoundly affected, needing additional support and accommodations.
In Mosiah 18:8–9, Alma invites us to bear one another’s burdens, mourn with those that mourn, and comfort those who stand in need of comfort. This covenant charge is especially relevant as we seek to understand and support our neurodivergent brothers and sisters. Their differences are not deficits in the eyes of God but part of His divine tapestry of mortal experience. 2 Nephi 26:33 teaches us that all are alike unto God, a truth that compels us to create welcoming spiritual homes for everyone.
One of the most comforting messages from the Book of Mormon is that God knows each of His children individually. Consider the story of Enos, who struggled internally until his soul hungered and he poured out his heart to God (Enos 1:4). Many high-functioning autistic and other neurodivergent members may find resonance in this kind of internal wrestle—feeling deeply yet expressing it differently. The gospel assures them that God hears and understands their inner world, even when others may not.
In Ether 12, Moroni expresses concern over the imperfections in his writing and communication. The Lord responds, Fools mock, but they shall mourn, and teaches that His grace is sufficient (Ether 12:26–27). This affirmation is powerful for neurodivergent members who may feel their social or communicative differences make them unfit for Church callings or participation. God sees beyond mortal metrics. He works through our weaknesses to manifest His power.
Too often, we mistakenly expect neurodivergent individuals to conform to arbitrary standards of behavior, communication, and social interaction that society labels as normal. In doing so, we risk imposing a narrow view of worth and belonging that excludes those whose minds work differently. It’s vital to recognize that what feels natural and comfortable to a neurotypical person may be overwhelming, confusing, or even painful to someone who is neurodivergent. Their version of normal—whether it involves stimming to self-regulate (repetitive body movements or repetitive movements of objects), avoiding eye contact, needing clear routines, or processing information in non-linear ways—is not inferior or broken; it is simply different. Respecting their normal is a powerful expression of Christlike love and humility. Just as we hope to be accepted as we are, we must offer that same grace to others whose ways of being are no less sacred or meaningful in the eyes of God.
For high-functioning neurodivergent members, inclusion may require more understanding than accommodations. Sensitivity to overstimulation in sacrament meetings, clear expectations in callings, or allowing time to process during gospel discussions can make a dramatic difference. Leaders and members can be trained to recognize signs of sensory overload or anxiety and offer calm, non-judgmental support. Most importantly, they should listen without trying to fix or normalize behaviors that simply reflect a different neurological wiring.
For members who are more severely affected—nonverbal individuals, those with intellectual disabilities, or those needing constant care—the gospel’s eternal perspective is essential. Moroni 8:12 teaches us that little children (and, by implication, those not accountable due to disability) are alive in Christ. They are covered by His atonement. Rather than seeing them as incomplete, the gospel recognizes their full eternal worth. Church programs can adapt ordinances, Primary lessons, and social structures to meet these children and adults where they are.
President Russell M. Nelson has emphasized that personal revelation is the most important skill we can develop. For leaders and families supporting neurodivergent individuals, this skill is vital. What works for one child may not work for another. What overwhelms one autistic adult may empower another. Revelation helps us know how to serve with love and patience.
True ministering requires us to build Zion communities where all feel they belong. That includes members who don’t conform to neurotypical expectations—those who script conversations, who avoid eye contact, who pace during lessons, or who quietly observe from the back of the chapel. It includes those whose loved ones bring them to church in wheelchairs or whose spiritual understanding can’t be expressed in traditional ways.
As we better understand autism and other neurodivergent conditions, we must see each individual as the Savior does. 2 Nephi 26:33 teaches that the Lord inviteth them all to come unto him. There are no exclusions. Our congregations should be places where differences are respected, not erased—where all can partake of the sacrament, learn of Christ, and feel the Spirit in their own unique ways.
We can and must do more to reach out, include, and love neurodivergent members with the same compassion Christ showed the marginalized in His ministry. As we do, we fulfill our baptismal covenants and become the body of Christ, fitly joined together—each part needed, each soul precious, and each child of God welcomed with open arms.
