Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Father William Hammer, pastor of St. Margaret Mary Church in Louisville, Kentucky, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and adapting to the needs of individuals with disabilities within his parish community. Located at 7813 Shelbyville Road, the church hosts a monthly event known as the Special Disciples of Jesus Mass. This service features a shortened liturgy designed for families with special needs.

“Every parish has special needs” and must discern the needs of parishioners, Father Hammer said in a recent interview. “The church has always allowed for cultural adaptations.” He believes that similar considerations should be made for those with special needs.

Father Hammer notes that different parishes may have varying ministry focuses, such as services for widows or seniors. At St. Margaret Mary, there is a particular emphasis on accommodating individuals with disabilities.

Through his experiences, Father Hammer has learned from the special-needs community about acknowledging each person's unique abilities and strengths. "The task," he explained, "is to recognize the abilities and strengths each person possesses."

“My observation is that a lot of these children have difficulty sitting still for extended periods of time,” he noted. For many in this community, movement is considered a strong ability rather than an impediment.

During the Special Disciples of Jesus Mass, participants are encouraged to express themselves freely by speaking out or moving around during worship. Father Hammer aims to create an environment where they can feel comfortable being themselves: “I want them to feel like they can be themselves,” he said. “To find a place to feel at home is important.”

Participants are often given roles during Mass according to their capabilities, such as lectoring or altar serving. One child trained as an altar server at this Mass now serves regularly at his home parish.

Additionally, other parishioners' strengths have been highlighted through involvement in this service's reception hosted by the Knights of Columbus. Volunteers who are not typically engaged with the special-needs community participate actively in these events.

For pastors considering similar adaptations within their parishes, Father Hammer advises starting by understanding their congregation's specific requirements: “Engage with your families and talk about their observations, what their children’s needs are,” he suggested.

He also stressed maintaining consistency in providing these adaptations: “These families and children seek consistency,” adding that they appreciate knowing what to expect when attending church services.