How a special needs ministry is bringing families back to the Church

The All Are Welcome ministry is helping families with disabilities find acceptance within the Catholic Church. Sarah Taylor, a mother of three from the Diocese of Baton Rouge, shared that her 9-year-old son, Reid, was previously excluded from parish activities, including Vacation Bible School and sacramental preparation classes, because the parish could not accommodate his autism.

After experiencing these barriers, Taylor contacted her diocese and was connected to the All Are Welcome ministry. She stated that the ministry provided her family with a sense of belonging and an understanding that Reid's differences are an integral part of his identity. Taylor said the experience has strengthened her family's faith journey.