MCC video offers unique perspective on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Canada has released a video called Can’t, Not Won’t to help families and communities living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

The video follows the very personal journey of two families, highlighting both the difficulties and joys of living with FASD. It also includes interviews with congregations and specialists.

Churches often isolate families with children who are FASD-affected because they assume that disruptive behaviour is a result of “bad parenting.” Families dealing with FASD may face alienation and abandonment by their congregation because of their child’s behaviour.

The video encourages congregations to learn more about FASD in order to adapt to the needs of individuals and families living with it. The understanding it promotes can be used to provide those affected by FASD with a supportive network of friends. A supportive faith community can, in turn, provide parents with a sense of peace, knowing their child will not be left alone or completely vulnerable after their death.

Marc Whitehead, a pastor at Winnipeg’s North Kildonan United Church in Winnipeg, says communities can learn a lot about God from people with FASD. “God seeks out the most marginalized, the most vulnerable, the humble, the poor, and the disadvantaged – to act as both the recipients of grace, and the instruments of grace.”

The video is designed as a Christian response to FASD. It uses basic Christian principles to encourage discussion about FASD and includes a study guide.

Can’t, Not Won’t is available on DVD or VHS, and can be borrowed from MCC offices or purchased through MCC’s online catalog.

—Tara Tharayil, MCC Canada