Sensory-Friendly Mass Welcomes Individuals with Disabilities
This Mass at the Cathedral of St. Joseph will have softer lighting, calm music, communal prayers recited at a slightly slower pace, and an ASL interpreter (if available). Bishop John McDermott will celebrate Mass. We invite all individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities and their families and caregivers to attend. This Mass encourages a welcoming stigma-free environment and accommodations to help reduce over-stimulation and sensory overload. Many people can benefit from a less stimulating environment, including those with sensory processing challenges, autism, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD or ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), anxiety, physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and adults with Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Families are encouraged to bring any regulation tools (noise reduction items, quiet fidgets, flexible seating items, weighted objects, etc.) that can support focused attention and provide comfort to a person so he can feel safe in his environment.
If are you planning to attend and you are able to, please consider parking off-site to allow those with mobility challenges to park in the Cathedral lot. Mass will be followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. For more information, please contact Eileen Haupt, Respect Life Coordinator, at [email protected] or 802-658-6110, ext. 120.