When Micah was a toddler, before our lives were slammed with the autism diagnosis, we noticed his words were disappearing. He had been speaking in short sentences, and then only one word at a time, then silence. It was a gut-wrenching time of wondering if we were overreacting or if he was truly regressing. When he was finally diagnosed as having Autism, I recall a meeting with our former pastor who shared with us that those who are unable to articulate their faith due to infancy, illness, or disability, have a special covering from God. Gary and I had dedicated each of our boys to God when they were infants, with the hope that they would make their own decision to be baptized. I thought that decision would not be an option for Micah.
A few weeks ago, I met with our current pastor to talk with him about Micah. We talked about the remarkable breakthrough in communication with Spelling to Communicate (S2C) and how that has helped him share his thoughts and intellect in ways we never dreamed possible since his voice had been silenced years ago. I also shared that he has spiritual insights that are both amazing and sometimes scary for him. Pastor Steve asked me if I thought Micah would like to be baptized. I told him that I did not know, but I would ask him. When I did, I expected a yes or no answer from Micah. What he spelled out rocked my world as he quickly spelled out “please”. What a lovely surprise; it seemed that he was just waiting to be asked. I let our pastor know then he set up a time to come and talk with Micah with Melody one of his S2C practitioners present to assist as Micah can spell openly with Melody. (He is getting more open with me, but it is a slower process).
Micah’s talk with our pastor was fascinating. He answered questions such as “What does baptism mean to you?”; “Why do you want to give your life to God?”; “Why do we need a Savior?”; and “Can you tell me what sin is?” with thoughtful sentences, clearly sharing he has a full understanding of why he wants to take this next step in faith. At the end, he thanked our pastor and asked when it can happen and shared that he would like his family and friends to attend. Thankfully he opted for an indoor baptism as the water in our lakes and rivers in New Hampshire is getting frigid!
Micah’s baptism has been set for next Saturday at which time he will share his answers as to why he has chosen to be baptized. Please pray that it is a special time for Micah and for those who are able to attend. *
This mama’s heart is especially blessed that Micah’s words are back and are powerful. Who would have thought the word “please” would open a cascade of insight into his spiritual journey? A journey he will share with others this Saturday and going forward.
Jan Lessard Peightell, October 18, 2025
*Photos to follow this special event.