Deaf Catholics seek inclusion

Sign language interpreters would bring in Church's 'lost sheep'

Caption: Dr. Joe McLaughlin (second from right) who was born deaf, believes
the Church has "lost a large number of the deaf to other religious groups which
offer interpreters." (Photo credit: Liette Gervais / Special to The B.C. Catholic)

Deaf Catholics will benefit from programs that help them more actively participate in Mass.

"There is a joy in being Catholic, and being part of a vibrant community," commented Richard Csabi to Canadian Catholic News at the International Catholic Deaf Association's 11th National Conference in Ottawa in July 2012.

He agreed with McLaughlin that the Church could do more to make the deaf feel welcome. Csabi did admit that Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton knows sign language, and Archbishop Terrence Prendergast, SJ, of Ottawa, "is very supportive."

"We (the deaf) can be deacons, priests, lectors, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion," Csabi pointed out.

Read the full story at The B.C. Catholic website.