Mass will recognize the contributions of parishioners with disabilities

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SALT LAKE CITY — The annual Catholics Can Mass, which celebrates the many gifts and contributions made by people with disabilities in the Diocese of Salt Lake City, will be celebrated this year on Oct. 2 in Blessed Sacrament Parish.

“The Catholics Can (Disabilities) Mass is helping in the education of children and adults with disabilities so they too can receive the sacraments,” said Dolores Lopez, the diocesan liaison for the Commission for People with Disabilities. “This Mass is to inform and promote the full participation of people with disabilities in Catholic parish life, to promote access for people with disabilities by increasing physical accessibility to parish space and inclusion of children or adults with disabilities in religious education.”

Bishop Oscar A. Solis will preside at the Mass, which is “a way to recognize and celebrate people with disabilities and their contributions,” Lopez said.

The celebration also helps to advocate for, nurture and sustain a parish culture of one Body in Christ, “responding and influencing the political, social, economic, legal and/or cultural communities, which promotes participation of people with disabilities in the parish, diocese and community,” she added.

People tend to overlook what a person with a disability can do, said Carol Ruddell, former chairperson of the Commission for People with Disabilities.

“Too often we only look at what someone isn’t able to do, yet as Catholics God has gifted us each with so many talents,” she said. “This Mass celebrates the gifts of each and every person.”

Each person is unique, “yet we all share our faith,” Ruddell added. “This Mass brings us all together in shared celebration and thanksgiving. So, while we are each different, we are all children of God.”

At the Catholics Can Mass, awards are given to persons with disabilities for their contributions to the diocese, and also to individuals, parishes or organizations that ensure meaningful participation by people with disabilities in all aspects of Catholic parish life.

The annual Catholics Can Mass “is a celebration of all peoples who contribute to bringing us all together,” Lopez said.

WHAT: Catholics Can Mass

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 2, 11 a.m.

WHERE: Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 9757 South 1700 East, Sandy

All are welcome. For information or to request accommodations, contact Dolores Lopez, 801-328-8641 ext. 333 or Carol Ruddell, 801-440-8729.