Creating Access and Inclusion in Worship

A Letter From Pathways Awareness

Dear Religious Leader:

Since Pathways Awareness inaugurated the Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors inclusion movement in 1996, more congregations than ever are providing accommodations so that worshippers of all abilities can participate in liturgy, ministry and leadership roles in Chicago area houses of faith.

An integral part of the Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors movement is the annual celebration of Inclusion Awareness Sunday. We are delighted that Eastern Orthodox parishes are joining us in celebrating the gifts received when all may worship together. The Inclusion Awareness Sunday Workbook of planning materials, posted on the Pathways Awareness website www.inclusioninworship.org, is provided to encourage your participation.

Thank you for opening hearts, minds and doors to parishioners of all abilities. Our faith communities are strengthened when we come together to meet the needs of our members so that everyone can share their gifts at the altar.

Sincerely,
Shirley W. Ryan
Chairman