By Karen Handeland, One in Christ ACC
When we encounter people who have special needs, we are not simply called to help them. We are called to love them, learn from them and recognize Christ present within them.
A few months ago, I felt called to do something within our One in Christ Area Catholic Community to better include those with various special needs. After speaking with our Social Concerns Committee and several others, we enthusiastically formed a team of 10 individuals who, in one way or another, had experience with people who are either blind, deaf, physically disabled, cognitively disabled or on the autism spectrum. These 10 members represented all four parishes within our ACC.
After our first planning meeting, it became clear that caregivers of individuals with special needs also need support. In many ways, our planning group became a support group of its own as we shared stories, challenges, joys and encouragement with one another.
I am blessed to have a brother, Dale, who has special needs. He has taught me so much about compassion, empathy, inclusivity, love and the simple pleasures of life. He has a kind heart, loves to make people laugh, and is a devoted son who helps care for our elderly parents. He has taught me that life doesn’t have to be so complicated and that true happiness is often found in family, friendship and faith.
Our special needs event was held on June 9 and began with Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Sauk Rapids. We shared a meal together, enjoyed music, crafts and a movie. We intentionally created different spaces to meet the needs of all people: a room filled with music and laughter, a quiet room for crafts and a movie room for those who experience sensory sensitivities. The goal of this event was simple: to allow others to experience the love of Christ through us.
Our hope was that every child of God would know they are valued, welcomed, loved and cherished exactly as God created them. We also hoped participants would discover genuine friendship, community and a true sense of belonging. As Catholics, we believe that every person possesses an inherent dignity that can never be taken away. This dignity is not earned; it is a gift from God. It belongs equally to every person, including those with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities and mental health challenges. Through our baptism, we are all called to share in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet and king. This calling is no different for people with special needs.
Pope Francis reminds us that, “Persons with disabilities are fully human subjects, with rights and duties.” Pope Francis also warned against a culture that measures human worth by usefulness, productivity or efficiency. Instead, he taught that every person possesses an inviolable dignity because each one is created in the image and likeness of God. Every human person is a masterpiece created by God. Before we were born, God knew us, loved us and called us by name. Our value does not come from our abilities, achievements, appearance, intelligence or independence. Our value comes from the simple and beautiful truth that we are beloved children of God.
As Scripture reminds us: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10). Through prayer, friendship, activities, fellowship and community, we hope all our friends
experience the love of Christ in a profound and personal way. More importantly, we hope all come to know what God has always known: that we are all treasured, gifted, and deeply loved. Each person is a masterpiece of God’s creation, and our communities are richer when every member has a place at the table.
Pictured above: Karen Handeland visits with participants during the special needs event at Sacred Heart in Sauk Rapids June 9. (Dianne Towalski / The Central Minnesota Catholic)
