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Complete this 8-module course at your own pace. The course is designed as a resource for those who are preparing children or adults with disabilities to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (with an additional module devoted to the Sacrament of Reconciliation). Each module will provide written, audio, and video resources to explore the topic, as well as an opportunity for weekly reflection. Each week will focus on the topic from three perspectives. First, we will consider the sacrament or teaching from the perspective of Scripture. Second, we will look at the doctrine and the liturgical practice of the sacrament in the life of the Church. Finally, we will consider practical considerations for preparing someone with a developmental disability to receive the sacrament. The final assessment will be an opportunity to synthesize everything learned and apply it to a practical, real-world situation.

Components of the course include ASL interpretations, captions, and transcripts. 

Read article about course here. 

 

Course Outline

Module 1 - An Overview of Sacramental Theology 

Mini-lecture: What is Sacramental Theology?

Podcast Interview: "Why Does Sacramental Theology Matter to Catechesis?" Dr. Timothy O’Malley, Academic Director of the Center for Liturgy at the University of Notre Dame.

 

Module 2 - The Mystical Body of Christ 

Mini-lecture: What is the Mystical Body of Christ?

Podcast Interview: "How Does the Mystical Body of Christ Relate to the Sacramental Life?" Dr. David Fagerberg, liturgical theology professor at the University of Notre Dame.

 

Module 3 - Overview of Church Teaching on Sacraments and Disabilities 

Mini-lecture: "Do I need to offer sacramental preparation for persons with disabilities in my parish?

Podcast Interview: "What Families of those with Disabilities Want You to Know about Sacramental Preparation" Kelly Mantoan, mother of two boys with SMA and founder of the Catholic ministry “Accepting the Gift.”

 

Module 4 - The Sacrament of Baptism 

Mini-lecture: Baptism –Gateway to the Sacraments

Podcast Interview: "Baptism--Welcoming with Joy the Children of God" Meghan Concagh, student of religious studies at Fontbonne University (with a special focus on catechesis for children with disabilities).

 

Module 5 - The Sacrament of the Eucharist 

Mini-lecture: The Eucharist--the Means of God's Provision

Podcast Interview: "Uniting Our Sacrifice to His--On Our Active and Hidden Participation with the Eucharist" Dr. Lawrence Feingold, professor of theology and philosophy at Kenrick Glennon Seminary.

 

Module 6 - The Sacrament of Confirmation

Mini-lecture: Confirmation--Not Catholic Graduation

Podcast Interview: "The Importance of the Sealing of the Gift of the Spirit--How Confirmation Enables Us to Live out the Life of the Faith" Brett Perkins, Assistant Director of Evangelization and Religious Education in Campus Ministry at the University of Notre Dame.

 

Module 7 - Sacrament of Reconciliation 

Mini-lecture: Reconciliation--It is Necessary?

Podcast Interview: "Not Withholding the Father's Embrace--Making Necessary Accommodations" Christy Wilkens, Catholic author, speaker, and mom of children with disabilities.

 

Module 8- Sacramental Preparation and Vocation 

Mini-lecture: Sacraments and Vocation--How Do They Go Together?

Podcast Interview: Sacramental Preparation and Vocation Mary Lenaburg –Catholic writer, speaker, and mother of a daughter with disabilities (who passed away several years ago, but continues to impact others).