Disabilities Ministry
Every person, regardless of their physical and mental abilities, has the right to a full life in the Church and deserves the support of parishes and church staff. The Diocese of Joliet is an inclusive diocese, and we believe in including everyone in the ministries and programs offered at our parishes.
Evangelization and Catechesis
Our parishes work together with families to discuss appropriate modifications to programs and initiatives and discern what is best for each disabled individual. All children/youth are welcome to participate in religious education and learn more about their faith and preparing for sacraments. The USCCB Guidelines for Sacraments with Persons With Disabilities clearly states that no matter how severe the disability, everyone has the right to receive sacraments.
For more information on special needs programming, please contact your local parish or reach out to:
Renata Cichowicz
Pastoral Outreach Lead
Phone: (815) 221-6245
rcichowicz@dioceseofjoliet.or
Resources
- Pastoral Statement of U.S. Catholic Bishops on People with Disabilities
- Diocese of Joliet: Reception of Holy Communion for Celiac Disease
Events and Programs
Please see below for events and programs that serve those with disabilities.
For more resources and events for the deaf and their loved ones, please contact the Deaf Apostolate at (815) 221-6250 or deafministry@dioceseofjoliet.org.
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The Diocese of Joliet invites those living with disabilities to gather together to celebrate a special affirmative liturgy together. The Mass is followed by a luncheon.
The next Mass for persons with special needs will take place on Oct. 1, 2023 at St. Mary Immaculate Parish in Plainfield.
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There are signed and interpreted Masses for the deaf community that are offered in the diocese each month.
Signed Masses:
- The first Sunday of the month at St. Thomas the Apostle in Naperville at 9 a.m. and St. Isidore in Bloomingdale at 12:30 p.m.
- The third Sunday of the month at St. Mary Immaculate in Plainfield at 11:30 p.m.
An interpreted Mass takes place at Christ the King Parish in Lombard every week at 10 a.m. For additional parishes that offer an interpreted mass, please contact Renata Cichowicz, pastoral outreach lead, at (815) 221-6245 or rcichowicz@dioceseofjoliet.org.
