Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) continues to be a very complicated developmental condition that many strive to fully understand. Initially documented in the early 1940s, it still perplexes the medical community and is an area of ongoing research. This is primarily due to its involved neurological nature and that it varies from individual to individual – sometimes even sibling to sibling. Despite its complex nature, it has become extremely prevalent and is seen in approximately 1% of the world’s population.
People with ASD and their families can often feel overwhelmed and isolated. As a Catholic community of Christians, everyone should do their part to help all parish community members feel welcome, loved, and accepted by loving one another as God loves each of us.
During the month of April, as well as throughout the year, VITALity recognizes and sheds light on the vital need for Autism Acceptance by helping bring awareness and acceptance of ASD in our parishes and local communities. Incorporating sensory-friendly Masses of Welcome and Inclusion is one way the local parish communities can work towards this goal.
Why sensory-friendly Masses are important.
Avoiding over-stimulation is crucial for individuals with ASD. For example, if someone with ASD is subjected to an environment that is too loud or has bright lighting, that environment can trigger overwhelming or even distressing feelings. This is due to the difficulty in regulating sensory information. Take a moment to consider the last time you attended Sunday Mass. As Catholics, music and jubilation are part of typical faith practices. Now consider the impact those practices may have on a person with ASD. That non-sensory-friendly environment may not feel very welcoming. Masses that are sensory-friendly aim to reduce the amount of stimulation to the nervous system in the hope that it will help autistic parishioners and people with other intellectual developmental disabilities and their families to be able to meaningfully participate in the Liturgy.
As part of Autism Acceptance Month, VITALity is excited to be celebrating two sensory-friendly Masses of Welcome and Inclusion for people with ASD or other developmental disabilities and their families. The first Mass will be held in Camden County on Sunday, April 16 at St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Church of the Holy Saviour located in Collingswood. The second will be in Cape May County on Sunday, April 23 at St. Damien Parish, St. Frances Cabrini Church located in Ocean City. With these two Masses, we hope to reach more families and provide the opportunity to participate together in a sensory-friendly and inclusive environment. All are welcome to attend the Masses, fostering a community that supports and accepts everyone as they are.
To learn more about promoting meaningful participation for all members of our faith, please visit the National Catholic Partnership on Disabilities. If you are interested in learning more about sensory-friendly masses of Welcome and Inclusion and how to incorporate a sensory-friendly Mass in your parish, please contact Fr. Hugh Bradley, Director, Ministry with the Deaf and People with Disabilities, VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services at hugh.bradley@camdendiocese.org.
Masses of Welcome & Inclusion Sponsored by VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services
