John Smith encountered Jesus Christ for the first time in 2000, while finishing an extended period of undergraduate studies in Indianapolis. By searching through Scripture and the Catechism, he found his way into a more full sacramental life through Confirmation in 2005. Across years of working with communities of disabled persons, catechetical ministry, and campus ministry, he came to a fuller understanding of his own neurotype: Autistic. John Smith then founded Autistic Catholics, encouraging belonging, self-advocacy, and Christian witness in the Church, especially among autistic Catholics across the United States. The organization invites growth in Faith, Hope, Charity, and Community in a new apostolate that meets weekly on Wednesdays.