Each weekend, we attend Mass with ease or at least the majority who attend Mass are able to find their place in the pews. Most of the emails, calls, or engagements I have encountered are from frustrated members of the church who express their desire to attend Mass; however, mobility, access to hearing devices, lack of sensory friendly space, or Sensory Friendly Masses and adaptive sacramental preparation are the biggest challenges. As a mother of five who has four children with a disability, I understand the frustration and applaud those who advocate for their family members or themselves. The bigger question is why? Why can’t everyone have equal access to Jesus? Why don’t pastors and parish leaders understand the frustration families feel when they can’t attend Mass because their child can’t sit still?
Robby Kiley, Director of Faith Formation at St. Pius X Church in Granger, IN and his colleague Allison Sturm developed a Liturgical Belonging Checklist. This resource can be used to assess the needs at your parish and start a dialogue. Jesus wants everyone at the table!
Our office is here to help you. Please contact Lisa Averion, [email protected] if you would like to schedule a time to meet.
