Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors

Creating Access and Inclusion in Worship

A LETTER FROM PATHWAYS AWARENESS FOUNDATION

Dear Religious Leader:

We are encouraged by the number of congregations who provide accommodations so that all may worship. Since we inaugurated Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors in 1996, more congregations than ever are joining our effort. An integral part of this inclusion movement is the annual celebration of Inclusion Awareness Day. We invite congregations of all denominations to observe Inclusion Awareness Day on September 25, 2005 or to choose a date of their own.

Many congregations tell us that they use Inclusion Awareness Day to raise awareness to the need for access and inclusion. Others celebrate how their community is enriched and strengthened when they come together to accommodate the needs of their members. Please join us on September 25 in celebrating the progress made on including worshipers of all abilities in worship, ministry and leadership every day of the year.

Sincerely,

Shirley W. Ryan
Chairman