Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia, is set to lead the annual Archdiocesan Mass honoring persons with disabilities, the Deaf community, and their caregivers. The event will take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia.

The Saint John Paul II Parish Choir will perform liturgical music during the Mass. Following the service, a reception will be held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center auditorium. The Mass and reception are sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office for Persons with Disabilities and the Deaf Apostolate.

All individuals are welcome to attend either in person or virtually. The Mass will be available for live streaming on both the Archdiocesan Vimeo Channel and Archbishop Pérez’s Facebook page starting at 3:00 p.m.

The Archdiocesan Office for Persons with Disabilities and the Deaf Apostolate works towards including people with disabilities in church life and provides resources for parishes to offer access and welcome. It also provides religious services in American Sign Language for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

Catholic Social Services’ Developmental Programs Division supports individuals with intellectual disabilities through various programs aimed at enhancing their quality of life while promoting dignity and respect within a Christian framework.

Additionally, the Archdiocesan Schools for Special Education aim to support students with physical and intellectual disabilities across multiple areas of development.