Creating Parish Communities of Welcome & Care

The Office for Disability Ministry serves as a resource providing parishes, schools, individuals and families with tools to make the Catholic faith accessible to all and to advocate for persons with disabilities and the Deaf Community. We work for the inclusion of persons with disabilities along with those who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. We want everyone to be full, conscious and active participants in their faith and to live out their call to holiness.

For more information or assistance contact Patty Origer, Persons with Disability Ministry Coordinator, at poriger@dmdiocese.org or 515-237-5073

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Who We Work With

We're all partners in making our parishes a place of inclusion and belonging for those with disabilities. The Office for Disability Ministry works with persons with disabilities, their families, the Bishop, Pastors and Clergy, catechetical leaders, school staff, parish leaders, the Deaf/Hard of Hearing community, and external organizations to ensure that all can live out their baptism in the Christian community.

"Persons with disabilities are not looking for pity. They seek to serve the community and enjoy their full baptismal rights as members of the Church. We are one flock that follows a single shepherd."

How We Can Help

 

The Office for Disability Ministry serves as a resource providing parishes, schools, individuals and families with tools to make the Catholic faith accessible to all and to advocate for persons with disabilities and the Deaf Community.

Adaptive Faith Tools

Some individuals struggle with sensory input like sight, touch, or movement. These adaptive tools can make the faith more accessible.

Caregiver Support

Caregivers also need support! We assist in establishing regular support groups at the parish level.

Deaf Ministry

Deaf Ministry supports the deaf and hard of hearing so that we may all be one in Christ.

Mental Health Ministry

We support parishes in establishing mental health ministries to support people experiencing mental health issues.

Parish Advocates

Parish Advocates are volunteers within a parish that serve as a liaison between people with disabilities and the parish staff & pastor.

Prayer Resources

Find prayer resources for people with disabilities, including novenas and saint prayers.

Prenatal Diagnosis Support

Receiving a prenatal disability diagnosis may be overwhelming. We offer support and resources in understanding what a diagnosis means and how to plan for the future.

Sensory-Friendly Mass

A Sensory-Friendly Mass provides a safe, comfortable, and stigma-free setting for children and adults with sensory challenges to participate in Mass.

Resources for Parishes

Creating a welcoming parish starts before families even step in the door. People with disabilities should be included in future planning, whether they are currently present or not. This includes having accessible facilities, programs, and open hearts.