Simple Steps for Building a More Inclusive Parish

Building a More Inclusive Parish
Creating an inclusive parish isn’t about doing more—it’s about seeing more: seeing the dignity of each person, the gifts they bring, and the presence of Christ in them. Here are some simple but meaningful ways your parish can grow in inclusion and love:
 
1. Appoint a Parish Disability Advocate
Assign a parishioner to serve as the Parish Disability Advocate—someone who can listen, guide, and help ensure that all parishioners can fully participate in the life of the Church. The Archdiocesan Commission on Persons with Disabilities offers regular orientations and support. Contact Brianna Nelson ([email protected]) to learn more.
2. Start with a Welcome & Build Belonging
Use inclusive language in homilies, bulletins, and hospitality. Let parishioners with disabilities and their families know: You belong here. You are valued. Ask how you can offer support.
3. Invite Full Participation in Parish Life
Encourage people with disabilities to serve as altar servers, lectors, greeters, choir members, or extraordinary ministers. Be creative, don’t assume limits, and offer “buddy” systems for mutual support when needed.
4. Celebrate All Abilities
With permission, highlight the unique gifts and contributions of parishioners with disabilities in bulletins, newsletters, or events. Focus on the person, not the disability.
5. Make the Sacraments Accessible
Offer flexible, individualized preparation for the sacraments, meeting each family and individual where they are. Every person deserves full access to the grace of the sacraments.
6. Communicate Accessibility Clearly
Update your parish website and bulletin to include contact information for the Parish Disability Advocate, accessibility accommodations, and ways to request support or offer suggestions.
7. Use the Resources Around You
Partner with local disability organizations, host inclusive community events, or invite speakers with lived experience to foster understanding. Offer occasional disability awareness training for volunteers.