Catechesis for People with Disabilities

Man holding dirt and a seedling in his hands.The National Directory for Catechesis states that: “Persons with disabilities…are integral members of the Christian community.

All persons with disabilities have the capacity to proclaim the Gospel and to be living witnesses to its truth within the community of faith and offer valuable gifts. Their involvement enriches every aspect of Church life.

They [persons with disabilities] are not just the recipients of catechesis—they are also its agents.

All persons with disabilities or special needs should be welcomed in the Church. Every person, however limited, is capable of growth in holiness.

Some persons with disabilities live in isolating conditions that make it difficult for them to participate in catechetical experiences. “Since provision of access to religious functions is a pastoral duty,” parishes should make that much more effort to include those who may feel excluded.

The Church’s pastoral response in such situations is to learn about the disability, offer support to the family, and welcome the child.” (NDC USCCB, Par. 49)

Listed below are resources to support the catechetical and faith formation of people with disabilities so they can live up to this call.

Catechetical Resources

      

Pastoral Statement of US Catholic Bishops on Persons with Disabilities, USCCB – 1978,Large Print Version

  Word PDF

Pastoral Statement of US Catholic Bishops on Persons with Disabilities, USCCB-1978, Pamphlet

 Link    

Sacramental Guidelines, Large Print Version       

  Word

PDF

Sacramental Guidelines, (USCCB -1995)

 Link    

Webinar: Catechesis for Children and Youth, Part I      

 Web Page

    

  •       Replay Webinar

Link

    

  •       Transcript

   Word PDF

  •      Powerpoint Presentation

  

PPT

  

  •      Continuum of Models Diagram

  Word PDF

  •      Access and Inclusion

   Word PDF

  •      Parish Religious Education Programs Diagram

  Word PDF
  •      Catechetical Resources for Children and Youth with Disability (Bibliography)
   Word PDF

Resources for Inclusive Catechesis
Explore the website at this link to the University of Dayton for topics available in Spanish and English from the Network for Inclusive Catholic Educators

 Link    

 Catechetical items available through NAFIM website

  • Role of the Special Needs Aide
  • Tips for Working with Children and Youth with Disabilities
  • El Rol del Asistente de Necesidades Especiales
  •  Consejos para Trabajar con Niños y Jóvenes con Necesidades Especiales

  • First Reconcilliation Preparation Tips for Parents, Teachers and Pastors

  • Curricula: Sacramental Preparation

Link

 

 

The Rose Fitgerald Kennedy Curriculum.
This comprehensive developmental curriculum developed by the Diocese of Pittsburgh is appropriate for use in the inclusive classroom, the specialized classroom, or in a home setting. Written for students with mild to moderate mental retardation ages 5–21. Available through RCL Benziger.

Link

 

  

Forms to Aid Successful Inclusion

Web Page