Those with special challenges and needs celebrated their first, hopefully of many, liturgies at St. Jude on Saturday, May 3.  There were folks from Duvall, Issaquah, Bothell, Woodinville, Bellevue, and Redmond.  Besides those for whom the liturgy was specially geared, there were representatives from the Seattle Archdiocesan Disabilities Ministry, Eastside Disabilities Ministries, and some folks for whom attention to those with special needs is near and dear to their hearts.  Many of the young people assumed active roles in the liturgy.  Parents expressed a thankfulness for a liturgy where they could come and not have to worry so much about how the actions of their child or loved one affected those around them.  A cursory glimpse of a survey of participants reflects a desire to have such liturgies on a monthly basis.  The youngsters steal your heart away.  The experience also provides a deeper appreciation for the love, commitment, and challenges faced by parents of those with special needs.  The Archdiocese of Seattle is planning a fall retreat for the parents of youngsters with special needs.  It is recognized that the parents need to get away, have an opportunity for prayer support, and experience the concern of the wider church. 

Thank you to all who helped to plan and carry out this liturgy.  Thanks even more to those who took part.

Blessings,

Fr. Dave Rogerson