Disabled parishioners have the same dignity, rights as everyone, says spokesman

A group of around 70 catechists gathered on February 15 in St. Rita Church to learn to serve people with disabilities.

“It is no different than (formation of ministers) in family life,” said moderator Esther Garcia during an interview. “We need awareness to realize that the person with disabilities has the same dignity and the same rights as we all have.”

Garcia led the workshop for Hispanische and Latino Catholics organized by the Hispan Ministry. It specializes in conductive catechetical programs for children and families in the diocese of Dallas. Garcia is also a former director of Outreach and Diocesan relationships for the National Catholic Partnership for Disabilities.

Disabled parishioners – including those with physical and mental disabilities – have the right to maintain the sacraments because of their baptism, said Garcia.

They need “in their faith” through Bible studies and retreats so that they “get to know God and have a relationship with God,” she said. “You can respond to God's call and be witnesses. We can learn from you. “

Garcia found that individuals are usually hospitable and make accommodations for those who are physically disabled. This is more difficult if the disability is not visible. For example, children with autism are sometimes dazzled as poor, she said.

“We have to be a community of love and compassion and not judge,” she said. “They are still the image of God, and they still have to be treated with dignity and respect.”

She offered her audience various tools that help you serve people with different skills. For example, Garcia offered a list of things that need autistic children:

• A structured environment, visual aids, sensory activities and lessons that are adapted to the learning level of the students.
  “Catechists have to make sure that we come on time and prepare,” remarked Garcia. “You have to have a learning environment, even if you believe that the child does not listen. Offer the same environment for everyone. ”
• Flexibility.
  “We want you to recognize 20 prayers, but we have to adapt. We don't have to be so rigid, ”she said.
• Interaction with peers.
  “Don't separate the students. Include them. Pray together. Work with you one to one (if necessary) and return with the same age, ”said Garcia.

Araceli Cortes, a bilingual catechist in St. Rita Church, said what she learned in the workshop, her minister for teenagers in St. Rita will help.

“It was an excellent presentation,” she said. “It will be useful wherever they go.”

Cortes said she particularly appreciated the lesson with autistic children.

“In the past, people were only said that they should discipline their children. Now we know that there are children with special needs, ”said Cortes. “It's good to be sensitive.”

The day ended with a demonstration of a sensory-friendly fair. Garcia shared a variety of tips, such as the selection of readings from a children's revolution, the editor of the lessons with great pressure for people with visual impairments, hearing aids and to choose softer music.

Eva Gonzalez, director of the office of the Hispanic Ministry, said that the workshop was organized in response to the national pastoral plan for the Hispanic/Latin American Ministry.