Pope Francis
Inclusion in parish life is essential for a vibrant community where every member, including those with disabilities, can fully participate. With nearly 18% of Australians living with a disability1, it’s likely that around one-fifth of our parish community is affected. Yet, many people with disabilities face barriers—physical or attitudinal—that prevent their full participation in the liturgy and parish activities, limiting their opportunities to contribute their unique gifts and spirituality.2
Building inclusive parishes not only enhances our worship but fosters lifelong connections, better health, and a deeper understanding of the diversity within our community. Real inclusion means valuing every person’s strengths and gifts, integrating all members into leadership and central roles in parish life, and responding to the call of Jesus to serve the vulnerable3.
Instead of asking, “What can we do for them?” let’s explore questions like:
1 – http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4430.0
2 – “Guiding Principles and Strategies for Inclusion in the Liturgy of Catholics with Disabilities” The Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, Liturgical Arts and Music Committee, August 25, 2005
3 – Catholic Social Teaching and Living with Disability http://justiceandpeace.org.au/catholic-social-teaching-and-living-with-disability/
4 – I have a story…People with disability and their families participating fully in parish life”. A PASTORAL DOCUMENT FOR PARISHES, Bishops’ Committee for the Family and for Life ,Australian Catholic Bishops Conference 2004 https://www.catholic.org.au/commission-documents/bishops-commission-for-pastoral-life-1/434-i-have-a-story-pastoral-document-1/file
Creating Inclusivity at your Parish
In recent years, our Archdiocese, in partnership with Personal Advocacy Service (PAS), has emphasised the importance of creating inclusive spaces for parish families with disabilities. PAS, with support from parish priests, invites parishioners to take on the role of Parish Inclusivity Coordinator in their parish.
The Parish Inclusivity Coordinator is key to fostering a welcoming environment for families with disabilities. When these families are warmly embraced, they experience a sense of value and belonging, and they have meaningful opportunities to participate. In turn, their contributions enrich the entire parish community. By building genuine partnerships, we discover not only what we can do for them but also what they bring to our shared faith community.
A true sense of community means that every member feels they belong, that their presence matters, and that together, as a committed community, we can meet each other’s needs. Inclusive communities thrive when all members are present, including those with disabilities. PAS and Parish Inclusivity Coordinators work closely to ensure that parish communities are prepared to welcome the valuable contributions of people with disabilities. Your support helps us sustain this meaningful work.
If your parish is interested in learning more about the role of Parish Inclusivity Coordinator, please contact us.
Australian Bishops Encourage Parishes to Welcome People with Disabilities
#IamChurch Campaign by the Vatican
The Vatican’s #IamChurch campaign features a series of six videos promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities. Watch the videos, launched on December 6, 2021, and explore more through the link below.
Thank you
for submitting a contact form to Personal Advocacy Service.
One of our team members will get in touch with you soon to provide more information or for further discussion. If your query is urgent, we encourage you to phone us on 08 9275 5388 , Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.
