Pope Francis asks the Church and civil institutions to embrace inclusion and to foster the active participation of people with disabilities
Pope Francis asks for prayers for people with disabilities so that they “may be at the center of attention in society.”
“It means changing our mentality a little and opening ourselves to the abilities and talents of these people who are differently abled,” the Holy Father reflects.
In addition, Pope Francis calls on institutions to promote “inclusion programs that enhance” the active participation of persons with disabilities.
TEXT OF MESSAGE
People with disabilities are among the most fragile among us.
Some of them suffer rejection, rooted in either ignorance or prejudice, which then marginalizes them.
Civil institutions need to support their projects through access to education, employment, and places where they can express their creativity.
Programs and initiatives are needed that promote their inclusion.
Above all else, big hearts are needed who want to accompany.
It means changing our mentality a little and opening ourselves to the abilities and talents of these people who are differently abled, both in society as well as in the life of the Church.
And so, creating a completely accessible parish does not only mean eliminating physical barriers. It also assumes that we stop talking about “them” and start talking about “us.”
Let us pray that people with disabilities may be at the center of attention in society, and that institutions offer inclusion programs that enhance their active participation.
Pope Francis – December 2023