Note Date: 2/6/2023: Note from Jane Lagger, Chief Development Officer
Hi Friends,
Every person deserves a community to worship and practice their faith with, as well as to feel included in the life of the Church. As we recognize the World Day of the Deaf on Sunday, September 25, I wanted to bring your attention to a wonderful ministry offered at the Diocese of Joliet - The Deaf Apostolate. Your generous support of the Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal makes this possible, thank you!
Through the Deaf Apostolate, the diocese offers both interpreted and signed Masses. With the ordination of Father John Ronaldo Abulag in 2020, community members now have their own shepherd to sign the liturgy so they may fully participate.
Interpreted Masses, found at a handful of parishes such as the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, help deaf Catholics clearly understand what is being presented. One participant in the ministry, Sharon McDonald, says “When we are able to see the Word in our own language, we feel a part of it.” "We feel that connection to the priest and to everyone else there hearing it.”
Sharon also is pursuing certification as a lay minister, so she can teach the faith to adults and children in her community. “Spreading the Word is the work of the Lord,” Sharon said. “We’re doing service to the Lord by bringing people into the faith.” You can learn more about Father John Ronaldo and Sharon McDonald's story in the video above.
Your devotion to the works of the Lord through the CMAA supports ministries such as the Deaf Apostolate that ensure all feel welcome at the Lord’s table.
Sincerely, Jane Lagger Chief Development Officer
2022 CMAA: Devoted to the Works of the Lord through the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministry
Diocese of Joliet will host the "National Eucharistic Revival" during the week of February 8 - 10. Fr. John Maria Abulag will lead a celebration (with special prayers and reflections) for Special Needs this Thursday (February 9th) at 5pm, at St. Raymond Nonnatus, Joliet.
If you are interested in going there, PLEASE contact Renata Cichowicz to request an interpreter by FEBRUARY 7th, no later than 2pm!