BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - s4story -- Author and disability advocate Amy J. Whatley has released a powerful new children's book titled Dear Pastor: Your Church Hurts, a moving story that gives voice to children on the autism spectrum and calls on churches to become more inclusive and sensory-friendly.

Told through the eyes of a ten-year-old boy who loves church but struggles with sensory overload, Dear Pastor: Your Church Hurts is a heartfelt letter to his pastor explaining his experience. He longs to worship like everyone else but often feels overwhelmed by loud music, bright lights, and the absence of a quiet space. His story opens the door for churches to create a more accessible environment, including the creation of sensory rooms, where every child can feel welcome.

"I wrote this book because too many families are staying home from church—not because they don't want to come, but because the church isn't ready for their child with sensory challenges," says Whatley, who has over 30 years of ministry experience and a passion for disability inclusion.

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Dear Pastor: Your Church Hurts is a timely resource for church leaders, Sunday school teachers, and parents who want to better understand the needs of neurodivergent children and build spaces of true belonging. It's also a tool that children with disabilities can use to express themselves and advocate for their needs.

The book is available now on Barnes & Noble Press, Amazon, Walmart, and amyjwhatley.com

About the Author

Amy J. Whatley is a lifelong educator, author, and disability advocate. She shares resources for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities on her YouTube channel and website. Dear Pastor: Your Church Hurts is her debut children's book and a passionate plea for churches to become more inclusive for all.

For more information, interviews, or review copies, contact:

Amy J. Whatley
Email: amy@amyjwhatley.com
Website: amyjwhatley.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@therealamyjwhatley