Our office has been working with Megan Sparks, Catechist and Grace Beene, Pastoral Associate at St. Leonard Faith Community. Megan has completed Level II of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd training and is using this knowledge to expand her program with persons with disabilities. Megan has a master’s degree in education and volunteered at a local parish until her program was moved to St. Leonard Faith Community. Each week, 15 students attend class and learn about His love, mercy, and sacrifice for all. Grace has welcomed this community and is excited to be part of this important ministry.
On November 14th, I attended a special evening at St. Leonard. Megan and Grace organized an Inclusive Reconciliation Night. Two priests were available to listen to the confessions of those who attended and four of Megan’s students made their First Reconciliation using the Adaptive Reconciliation Kit by Loyola Press. Parents are thankful for Megan’s outreach, passion, and desire to bring their children to His table.
Creating a culture of Belonging and inclusion for all in the Catholic Church is essential. Megan shared, Our program gives families a place for all their children to learn about Jesus. It focuses on each child’s needs and meets them where they are both spiritually and academically. We look at the ABILITY and NOT the disability. Jesus came for each of us and through this beautiful ministry, missionary disciples are being formed.
Would you like to learn more about how to start this ministry in your Family of Parishes? Our office will host a workshop in 2025 to help you serve all members of your community and create a culture of BELONGING! To learn more about this special opportunity, register here.
Thank you Megan and Grace for all your hard work!
For more information or questions, please contact Lisa Averion, [email protected]
