bountifulplate

As a new disability ministry in the area, we have a lot to prove. We have to show that what we do is helping others AND is needed.  As program director, I am constantly looking for different programs for our “special” individuals and families. Since April, we have had three special needs Masses, two worship services, a picnic and just recently, a music event at the Michigan State University Community Music School. Our average attendance (not including the picnic) has been holding steady at about 30. The picnic surpassed all expectations and we had about 100 people! One of the gals that brought some wonderful individuals from a group home to the picnic, told me to my face, “there isn’t much out there for older disabled adults to participate in.”   Hmm, I found that quite sad. My son is just 11, but in seven years he will be an adult. The thought of him having very little programs and activities available to him when he reaches 18 is not a thought I like!   That’s wh...

This time last year, Dominic was in the midst of finishing up his two years of special needs religious education classes and was preparing to make his First Holy Communion. I was shopping for church shoes and a shirt and tie. Since we have no family here, any celebration afterwards would be small, so I knew that wouldn't require too much planning. When the big day arrived, it was a moment captured in time, that I will never forget. Shortly after Dominic made his First Holy Communion, I became co-chairperson of a group called, Our Lady of Grace Special Families Ministry.  The ministry has a bowling group that is in its ninth year. I knew in my heart, though, that the ministry could be doing so much more. I really, really wanted a Mass for special needs children and adults. I had become, what you would call, a "dog with a bone." I wasn't about to give the idea up!!! Well, about three weeks ago, my "faith" had begun to waver a bit and I was beginning...