Children with Special Needs
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The “National Directory for Catechesis” states: “We are a single flock under the care of a single shepherd. There can be no separate Church for persons with disabilities. Persons with disabilities, especially children, are particularly beloved of the Lord and are integral members of the Christian Community. They include those with cognitive disabilities, those with developmental disabilities, those with learning disabilities, the emotionally disturbed, persons with physical disabilities, the hard of hearing, the deaf, the visually impaired, the blind and others. All persons with disabilities have the capacity to proclaim the Gospel and to be living witnesses to its truth within the Christian 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.” (49).
The staff of St. Elizabeth Seton encourages parents of children with special needs to enroll their children in religious education. The parents and staff will work together to find the most appropriate setting for catechesis for each child. Possibilities include participation in the grade level classroom, the assistance of an instructional assistant, small group instruction, and individual instruction.