The Soul and Disabilities

Individuals with special needs are fully human, created in the image of God, and therefore bear the image of God in their soul. I’ve been pondering lately why the Church doesn’t seem to value them in their words and actions - by failing to bring them into our faith communities.

Is it because the Church might believe that those with disabilities have souls that are disabled?

Is it because many with special needs cannot express their faith in the same way “normal” people do?

Is it because the Church might be blind to the Fruits of the Spirit that defines their ministry in this world?

Is it because they think people with special needs can’t understand the mysteries of faith?

Is it because they think that people with special needs have nothing of value to offer the faith community?

The soul given to those with special needs, bearing the image of God, understands Love.

That soul which reflects God sees and understands.

God sees and understands.

Will we, the Church, be forgiven for our blindness, our lack of understanding and compassion?

Let us join together, as Blessed Mother Teresa taught, and "look for the face of Christ in each of His numerous disguises wherever we go."

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