Ministry to individuals with special needs and their families is truly a unique experience and one that must be tailored to the individual. Suggestions and resources listed here are offered as guides, but "one size does not fit all" when it comes to Special Needs Ministry.
The most important part of this ministry is building a relationship and being "person-centered" in tailoring adaptations and accommodations to the individual's needs.
Parents, siblings and caregivers are great assets to ministers in identifying appropriate and life-giving adaptations. Ministry to individuals with special needs must include ministry to the caregivers and opportunities for their respite as well as meeting the individual's needs.
Adaptive Confirmation Preparation Kit (Loyola Press)
Adaptive Finding God (Loyola Press)
Adaptive First Eucharist Preparation Kit (Loyola Press)
Adaptive Reconciliation Kit (Loyola Press)
Hands of Grace: The Catholic Sacraments in American Sign Language (Ascension Press)
How Religious Organizations Can Be more Accessible to People Who Are Deaf (Baylor University)
Inclusive Catechesis Resources (Institute for Pastoral Initiatives, University of Dayton)
Strengthened in Faith: Confirmation DVD Set (National Catholic Office for the Deaf)
Strengthened in Faith: Confirmation Manual (National Catholic Office for the Deaf)
The Mass - Visual Booklet
The Office of Faith Formation has copies of most of these materials for parishes to review. Contact Colleen Darland to schedule an appointment for review.