Special Needs

- dID YOU KNOW?
  
  All children who have been baptized are entitled to receive the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.
  
  A religious education curriculum can be adapted and/or modified to meet the needs of children with disabilities. Their presence in the program is a sign and symbol of God’s love for all.
  
  The timing and frequency of instruction can be adapted to the child’s particular needs and abilities.
  
  The catechist for children with disabilities does not need a background in special education. Resources and guidance are now available to help catechists meet the needs of these children.
  
  Although all children are encouraged to learn and pray the basic prayers (Our Father, Hail Mary, Sign of the Cross), memorization of these prayers is not a requirement to receive the sacraments.
  
  The Office of Child and Family Catechesis will provide ongoing support, consultation and resources to parishes that minister to children with special needs.
  
  (Adapted from “Recognizing the Gift: A Parish Resource Guide for Welcoming Children with Disabilities” Archdiocese of New York, 2014.)
- “It is necessary to care for and accompany persons with disabilities in every condition of life… to make way alongside them… It is a demanding, even tiring journey, which will increasingly contribute to forming consciences capable of recognizing that each one of us is a unique and unrepeatable person.’’ - Pope Francis

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