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Special Needs Mass at Holy Trinity |
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Rectory Address: 14-51 143rd St., Whitestone, NY 11357 Rectory Phone: 718-746-7730 Fax: 718-767-1368 General Parish E-mail: holytrinityrcchurch@verizon.net Director of Faith Formation e-mail : holytrinityfaithformation@verizon.net School Phone: 718-746-1479 |
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In 2010, under the guidance of Father Joseph Gibino, Holy Trinity recognized the need in the community to make Catholic Church services available to those with special needs – physical, mental or emotional disabilities. Father Joe, along with Faith Formation Director Donna Spoto and several Holy Trinity parishioners, determined to make Holy Trinity a destination for families with special needs looking to celebrate mass together. Father Joe understood from the beginning that the special needs masses could be a bit noisy and chaotic, and he has welcomed everyone. Children are not required to stay in their seats the entire time, nor are they expected to be silent at all times. There is an environment of tolerance and acceptance. While everyone is encouraged to follow typical mass protocol, there is an understanding that some degree of noise and commotion can and always does occur. The first special needs mass at Holy Trinity Church was held October 17, 2010. Approximately 35 people attended the first mass, held in the chapel in back of the main church. In addition to celebrating a full mass, the attendees said specific prayers for special needs individuals, families and professionals. A family with an autistic daughter brought up the gifts, and others with special needs helped welcome guests, sing, and celebrate the mass. Music Director Michael Zabrocki brought his guitar and shared his music ministry with all, really connecting and interacting with everyone. The mass was followed by light refreshments, giving parents a chance to talk and share stories and ideas. Special needs masses were held once-a-month throughout 2011 with mass attendance increasing each time with special activities often provided after each mass (for example, Easter Egg Hunt). The First Anniversary of the Special Needs Mass was held on October 30. For first quarter of 2012, special needs masses are scheduled for January 22, February 26 and March 18. The Holy Trinity special needs mass has been written about in numerous local periodicals:
The Daily News: http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/queens/2011/01/04/2011-01-04_mass_but_no_shushin_a_service_for_disabled_kids.html
The Whitestone Times: http://www.yournabe.com/articles/2010/12/09/whitestone_times/news/wt_autistic_girl_20101209.txt
The Tablet: http://www.thetablet.org/findingmary.aspx |
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Holy Trinity Parish |
