Pictured are (from left) Regina White, SPRED catechist from St. Matthew Parish; Father Peter Ascik of St. Matthew Parish; and Marie-Claire Miot, a member of St. Matthew’s SPRED program. (Photo provided by Richard White)CHARLOTTE — “There is a difference between being tolerated and being welcomed.” These are the words of a parent at St. Matthew Church whose child with intellectual challenges is a participant in the Special Religious Development Program known as SPRED.
SPRED offers those with developmental disabilities and intellectual challenges the opportunity to know of God’s Love and to become part of the liturgical life of the Church.
It is based on the fact that, because of our baptism, we are all members of the Body of Christ, and as such, deserve to be full members of the liturgical life of the parish family.
Chris Beal, director of faith formation for the Diocese of Charlotte, said, “By virtue of their baptism, persons with special needs are valued members of the Body of Christ. And as such, the Church seeks to support them in their growth and holiness.”
The diocese established a diocese-wide Special Needs Resource Group, staffed by volunteer catechists from several parishes, in 2016. Its mission is to provide parents and parishes with resources to enable them to meet the catechetical needs of all God’s children.
In collaboration with the diocese, the group developed on the diocese’s website, www.charlottediocese.org, a separate section for special needs resources, including a guide for parishes in using either a specialized faith formation program or an adapted version of their regular faith formation curriculum.
Upcoming events are promoted on this webpage (www.charlottediocese.org/ev/faith-formation/special-needs-resources), including:
n Eucharistic Congress: The 2019 Eucharistic Congress will feature a Special Needs Track for people of all ages with developmental disabilities/intellectual challenges to participate in the event in a safe and secure environment. The track offers activities, catechesis and a period of Eucharistic Adoration.
Registration is now open on the Eucharistic Congress’ website, www.goeucharist.com.
The diocese also needs volunteers who have completed the requirements for working with children to help with the session. Volunteers may also register online.
n Catechists’ workshop: On Saturday, Aug. 17, a workshop for catechists will be held at St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte. This practical workshop, entitled “Strategies for Teachers to Include and Catechize Students with Intellectual Disabilities,” will be presented by Dr. Laura Campbell, director of Catholic teacher education at Belmont Abbey College.
The day will begin with Mass at 9 a.m., refreshments, followed by the workshop in the Ministry Center from 10 a.m. to noon. Registration and more information is online.
— Jan Clemens