Bishop Paul Hendricks celebrated the publication of Diana Klein’s new book, Symbols of Faith, at Vaughan
House on 19 March, the solemnity of St Joseph. The book was developed and trialled in the Diocese in collaboration with Caritas St Joseph’s.
Symbols of Faith is a new resource for the faith formation and sacramental preparation of people with intellectual disabilities. The aim of the book is to enable parents, priests and catechists to understand how our faith to may be passed on to individuals with learning difficulties, and how we can help them to develop a relationship with God.
In the foreword to the book, Cardinal Vincent quotes St Paul’s letter to the Corinthians: ‘The members of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable’ (1 Corinthians 12:22). This short passage of scripture, he says, proclaims a powerful and important message. As St Paul says, ‘they seem to be weaker’ – and the idea that those with intellectual disabilities are unable to receive the sacraments is shown to be a misrepresentation. He asks us to recognise the indispensability of people with disabilities, and to ensure that they take their rightful place in the very heart of the Church.
Parents hear at the baptism of their children that they will be their first and the best catechists. Priests are told at their ordination that they are the ‘educators of the faith’. Symbols of Faith opens up Church teaching to people with intellectual disabilities, and in doing so allows parents, priests and catechists to fulfill their role in sharing our faith.
Symbols of Faith offers creative insights and ideas in keeping with Church teaching, and recognises the gifts and talents of people with learning disabilities. The materials are adaptable, flexible and appropriate to their age and ability, helping individuals with learning disabilities to know the person of Christ, who leads us to the Father through the Holy Spirit. There is a CD included with the book, which provides additional resources and unlimited use of activity sheets to complement the sessions.
Diana Klein (centre) with John Coleby, Director of Caritas Westminster (left) and Gail Williams, Director of Caritas St Joseph's (right). Behind are Caritas members of staff.
