Winter 2000

Open Hearts Open Minds Open Doors Logo

A publication of Pathways Awareness Foundation in partnership with the Archdiocese of Chicago
Discover in this issue:
  • Celebrating inclusion in the new millennium
  • Introducing the latest tool to further inclusion in your parish
  • Save the Date: Inclusion Sunday 2000
Celebrating inclusion in the new millennium
As much as people around the world may try to resist joining in the hype of "millennium fever," they find themselves reflecting on where they have been and where they are going as they begin the 21st century. At this time in history of great transition, consider the following questions with regard to your parish:

• Have we surveyed the needs of people with disabilities?

• Are people with disabilities actively involved in Liturgy and parish life?

• What are the architectural, attitudinal and communication barriers that people with


Curb cuts
Inclusion at mass

disabilities face when they try to join in worship?

• Does my parish have an inclusion committee? Are people with disabilities represented on the committee?

• What more could we be doing to include people of all abilities?

The New Year historically has been a time for rejuvenated efforts and new beginnings. At this special time, let us reflect on how we can strengthen our churches by welcoming all people in worship.
Open Hearts Open Minds Open Doors Logo

A publication of Pathways Awareness Foundation in partnership with the Archdiocese of Chicago
Winter 2000 Page 2
Introducing the latest way to further inclusion

 

**Call 1-800-955-2445 to order the original Open Hearts video

 
A new tool to help further inclusion efforts in your parish has recently been published. Pathways Awareness Foundation, in partnership with the National Federation of Priests’ Councils, have developed a white paper, entitled "Opening Hearts, Minds and Doors: Embodying the Inclusive and Vulnerable Love of God." The publication, which is based on the inclusion conference talks by Joseph Cardinal Bernardin and Father Henri Nouwen, was sent to over 48,000 priests around the world to further the message of inclusion of persons with disabilities in Liturgy and parish life.

In the white paper, co-authors Rev. Robert Barron and Rev. Donald Senior, C.P., examine Rev. Henri Nouwen’s 

 theological framework for inclusion of people with disabilities into the Catholic Liturgy – affirmation, communication and accessibility. The booklet contains practical suggestions for inclusion, questions for reflection and other resources for priests on this important issue. Many of Father Nouwen’s most thoughtful quotations are highlighted.

In the publication, Rev. Senior asserts, "The white paper will be widely read by priests and have a genuine impact on their congregations."

Copies of the white paper can be ordered by calling Pathways Awareness Foundation at 1-800-955-2445. The first copy is free of charge if you mention this newsletter.
Save the Date: Inclusion Sunday 2000
On Sunday, October 15, 2000 parishes around Chicago will once again celebrate Inclusion Sunday. Since 1996, celebrating Inclusion Sunday has marked an important day during which parishes commit to making greater efforts to more fully include persons with disabilities in liturgy and parish life throughout the year. Inclusion Sunday is part of a unique partnership between the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Pathways Awareness Foundation. The goal is to enhance the availability of liturgy and sacraments to persons with disabilities.

Please call Pathways if you need additional help or information in preparing for the 2000 Inclusion Sunday celebration.

Coming Next Week! Watch for a special bulletin about the chance to win up to $1,000 for your parish to continue inclusion efforts!
About Pathways Awareness
Foundation		 Pathways Awareness Foundation was established in 1988 to raise awareness about early intervention and inclusion of children and youth with physical challenges.
123 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 • 1-800-955-2445 • www.pathwaysawareness.org