Creating Access and Inclusion in Worship

A Letter From Pathways Awareness

Dear Parish Leader:

Since the inauguration of the Open Hearts, Open Minds inclusion movement in 1996, congregations and parishes in the Chicago area and across the United States have used our educational materials, Open Hearts Awards cash grants and annual Inclusion Awareness Day to create accessible faith communities where everyone can participate.

We invite you to observe Inclusion Awareness Day in your faith community on October 10, 2010 or an alternate date this fall. We are delighted that the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Center, Long Island, New York is joining us in celebrating Inclusion Awareness Day this year.

The Inclusion Awareness Day Workbook for Roman Catholic faith communities is provided to encourage your participation. This year the workbook includes information about Mary Virginia Merrick, founder of the Christ Child Society. Like Pathways Awareness, Mary was devoted to helping children in need. Her leadership was made possible because her disability, acquired in a childhood fall, was accommodated and her gifts were recognized. Her parish and religious leaders supported and encouraged her work. Mary Virginia Merrick’s life demonstrates the positive outcomes achieved when everyone is encouraged to share their gifts in our faith communities.

Thank you for joining Pathways Awareness in opening hearts, minds and doors to parishioners of all abilities, not only on Inclusion Awareness Day, but every day of the year.

Sincerely,
Shirley W. Ryan
Chairman