The Church of England is being urged to do more to support neurodivergent clergy and worshippers, following a report highlighting what it describes as "cultures of ableism" within the denomination.
The report, All Kinds of Minds, has been put together for the General Synod, the Church's governing body, which meets in York next week.
It says many churches are still shaped around neurotypical expectations, creating barriers for people with conditions including autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, Tourette syndrome and learning disabilities.
Researchers spoke to dozens of neurodivergent clergy, many of whom said they felt pressure to conform to an "ideal clergyman" described as "a busy, extroverted, often male archetype reinforced by church culture".
Some said they preferred a "slow church model" that was "quieter [and] more contemplative".
One participant said the priesthood should be a place "where everyone is allowed to find their own speed and style" rather than one that assumes "loud and showy is the only good way to grow churches and communities".
Another said: "I frequently have to come home and lie on the floor to literally ground myself after the demands of playing the neurotypical minister part, when I'd much prefer to take off the mask and be me."
The report was compiled by academics including Dr Brian Irvine, of University College London, who specialises in mentoring autistic people.
It says: "Transforming ableist and unsafe institutions requires repentance and change to allow neurodivergent clergy to truly flourish."
It adds: "Neurodivergent people are already serving, leading, worshipping and shaping the life of the Church.
"Yet too often church culture, discernment processes, safeguarding practice and expectations of ministry have been formed around neurotypical assumptions.
"Many neurodivergent people have been unwilling or unable to be open in their work, ministry or community, fearing prejudice, discrimination and judgement."
The report also highlights examples of churches adapting services to be more inclusive, including sensory rooms and Lego-based worship sessions.
A motion due before General Synod next week calls for "neurodiversity champions" to be appointed across the Church and for training to help "challenging and transforming unjust structures and processes which disadvantage and discriminate against" neurodivergent clergy and worshippers.
The motion was tabled by Fiona MacMillan, a lay member of the General Synod who describes herself as neurodivergent.
She said some progress was already being made, adding: "I'm excited to learn about growing neurodiversity-friendly services … so many seeds are being planted."