Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville
In 2022, Pope Francis urged the church to address the accessibility needs of people with disabilities, aiming for full integration into the community. Laura Zoeller, the Archdiocese of Louisville’s consultant for adult formation and initiation, supports this initiative by emphasizing that "accessibility is not just about wheelchair ramps. It’s also about being welcoming."
Zoeller suggests that creating a more inclusive Sunday liturgy can start with individuals in the congregation adopting a positive attitude. She stated, “Just having the awareness that not everyone is the same” is essential. Zoeller highlighted that understanding different expressions during Mass, such as noise from children, should be celebrated rather than judged.
Church ministers have a role in fostering inclusivity at Mass by increasing their awareness of diverse abilities among parishioners. "Having the ministers be aware that they may have people with different abilities come in" is crucial for their training, according to Zoeller.
Hospitality ministers are encouraged to consider seating arrangements for those with disabilities. For instance, someone with hearing loss might need to sit near the front, while others may require proximity to an exit due to self-regulating behaviors.
Eucharistic ministers should also be attentive to communicants’ specific needs. Some individuals might require alternative forms of receiving communion due to medical conditions or dietary restrictions.
Parishes can further support inclusion by providing aids like assistive listening devices or written copies of homilies for those with hearing impairments. Additionally, involving individuals from the disabled community in parish ministries can enhance participation and representation.
Rachel Williamson from St. Margaret Mary Church shared her experiences as a parent of a child with special needs. Her parish offers special Masses where families feel accepted and understood. “There’s a place for everybody at church,” she affirmed.
For more information on resources available for supporting individuals with disabilities in church settings, visit the National Catholic Partnership on Disabilities website at www.ncpd.org.