The National Directory for Catechesis states that: “Persons with disabilities…are integral members of the Christian community. All persons with disabilities have the capacity to proclaim the Gospel and to be living witnesses to its truth within the community of faith and offer valuable gifts. Their involvement enriches every aspect of Church life. They are not just the recipients of catechesis—they are also its agents.

All persons with disabilities or special needs should be welcomed in the Church. Every person, however limited, is capable of growth in holiness. Some persons with disabilities live in isolating conditions that make it difficult for them to participate in catechetical experiences. ‘Since provision of access to religious functions is a pastoral duty,’ parishes should make that much more effort to include those who may feel excluded. The Church’s pastoral response in such situations is to learn about the disability, offer support to the family, and welcome the child.” (NDC USCCB, Par. 49)

PEOPLE’S RESPONSES FOR HOLY MASS: THE NEW ROMAN MISSAL THIRD EDITION

Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments for Persons with Disabilities http://www.ncpd.org/sites/default/files/Guidelines%20for%20the%20Celebration%20of%20the%20Sacraments%20with%20Persons%20with%20Disabilitie1.pdf

To order a booklet from USCCB publishing: http://www.usccbpublishing.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=369

Resources from the University of Dayton Institute of Pastoral Initiatives

Catechesis and Disability, 3-part series, DVD and Resource CD. Available on loan from the Office of Equal Access Ministries
(419-244-6711) or for purchase at http://www.ncpd.org/node/1118

Other Valuable Resources:

The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Curriculum is a comprehensive collection of lesson plans developed by the Diocese of Pittsburgh. It is appropriate for use in an inclusive classroom, a specialized classroom, or in a home setting. Written for students aged 5–21. Available on loan from the Office of Equal Access Ministries (419-244-6711) or for purchase from RCL Benziger (877-275-4725).

We Go to Mass
by GLEA - God's Love Embraces Autism
A Mass book that addresses some of the needs of autistic children, it is visually oriented and incorporates many of the parts of the Mass. Available on loan from the Office of Equal Access Ministries (419-244-6711) or for purchase from RCL Benziger (877-275-4725).

The Child with Autism Learns the Faith
by Kathy Labosh
15 bible story lessons from the Old Testament. Available for purchase at
http://www.laboshpublishing.com/osc/Default.aspx
(717.898.3813)

St. Mary’s Curriculum for Students with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities.
http://www.autismreligiouseducation.net

The ABC’s of A.D.D. for Catechists
By Madonna Wojtaszek-Healy, Ph.D.
The purpose of this booklet is to assist catechists in understanding Attention Deficit Disorder, so that they may be better able to nurture the faith and spiritual development of children with this condition. Available on loan from the Office of Equal Access Ministry (419-244-6711) or for purchase at rootedinloveinc@aol.com.

Autism and Alleluias
It goes without saying that having a child with autism turns a family's world upside-down. In Autism & Alleluias, Kathleen Deyer Bolduc considers the role that faith plays in helping families cope. Is it possible to sing alleluia in the midst of very real adversity?
Autism and Alleluias

Catechists for All Children, by Joseph White, PhD. And Ana Arista White.
Available for purchase from Our Sunday Visitor, www.osv.com

My First Eucharist: A Signed and Closed Captioned Sacramental Preparation Program for Deaf Children, video and curriculum guide available on loan from the Office of Equal Access Ministries (419-244-6711).

Sample Form: Individualized Religious Education Plan.
http://ncpd.org/sites/default/files/IREP.pdf

Teaching Tips for special needs students to accompany “Together in Jesus” curriculum by Pflaum Publishing.
http://www.pflaum.com/accommodations.htm

Interfaith Religious Education Materials
Friendship Bible studies

Interpreter Training Videos for the New Roman Missal
http://www.adw.org/service/NewRomanMissal_InterpreterTraining.asp

Adaptive First Eucharist Preparation Kit. For learners with limited language, includes picture missal, interactive activities and teaching guide. Available on loan from the Office of Equal Access Ministries (419-244-6711) or for purchase from Loyola Press  http://www.loyolapress.com/adaptive-first-eucharist-preparation-kit.htm .