The purpose of the department for
Pastoral Ministry with Persons with Disabilities is to affirm the integrity of the Baptismal vow of people with disabilities and to work for their inclusion in the life and mission of the Church at the parish level, by working collaboratively with parish leadership. It does this through:
Education, Advocacy, Affirmation, and
Collaboration. This includes people with intellectual, physical, emotional and vision disabilities.
Areas of focus:
- Seeks to reach out to people with disabilities and their families, to support participation in: liturgy, the Sacraments, catechesis, faith formation, ministry, evangelization, social life and mission of the church, at the local and universal level.
- Seeks to diminish the sense of isolation of people with disabilities and their families.
- Seeks to support the efforts of local parish leadership for inclusion.
ACTIVE PROJECTS INCLUDE: Collaboration with parishes on inclusion strategies; inclusion of people with developmental and learning disabilities in religious education and the Sacramental life of the church, which includes: catechist training and support; resource development and adaptation for catechesis and preparation for the Sacraments; outreach to parents of sons/daughters with developmental disabilities in their spiritual journey; task force on possibilities for supported inclusive education in Catholic schools.
SUPPORT STRATEGIES: Parent Advisory Council; PRAISE Executive Board; Development of Catechist Certification Process; Council for Special Needs in Catechesis; Seeking to establish PRAISE Professional Advisory Board to support catechists and expand training/outreach capability; Behavioral Supports – “Buddy” Program; interfaith collaboration; special liturgy celebrations; Inclusive Family Masses. …
HORIZONS: Parish Advocates; ongoing faith/spirituality nurturing for adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities; outreach to group homes; and … stay tuned …
NEED: FINANCE/FOUNDATION support for increased outreach and services.
