Ministry with Persons with Disabilities – Suggested Text for Parish Bulletins

• Some individuals who have a developmental disability, like autism spectrum disorder, are learning to attend and participate in Mass.  Please be patient with behavior that may appear irreverent or inappropriate for the Sacred Liturgy.  Your understanding of their learning process supports the tireless efforts of parents and catechists who help to fulfill our parish’s mission to serve all members of the Body of Christ. 
• All parishioners and guests who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids are welcome to sit wherever you are mot comfortable in the church.  Guide dog/service animals for persons who are blind or have other disabilities are also welcome.  If you need assistance finding accessible seating, or you would like the Eucharist brought to you, please inform an usher. 
• Registration for our parish faith formation is open to everyone. Please include any accommodations needed to facilitate success in learning.
• We welcome our Deaf parishioners and members of the Deaf community from outside our parish and beginning on {date} at the {time} Mass, we will reserve the front pew {or specify other area} for them to ensure they have visual access to the interpreter, celebrant and liturgical ministers in the sanctuary.  Please welcome {name of the interpreter} who will be interpreting for us! 

Additional suggestions can be found in the their booklet, “Speaking of Disability: Pastoral Guidelines on Language”