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SPecial REligious Development (SPRED)
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SPRED is a ministry that welcomes children and adults with developmental disabilities and leads them toward- a deeper awareness of God in their lives
- an awareness of themselves as persons of dignity who are deeply loved by God
- an awareness of their integral relationship to the parish community and the Church, as a whole.
Our QAS SPRED program has welcomed children 11-16 years old since we began in April 2001. Throughout these years, the adult catechists, as well as the children, have grown in many ways. We are truly a family and have shared many important occasions together and have witnessed the sacraments of Communion and confirmation with many of our friends.
The SPRED program consists of 20 sessions: 10 sessions with only the adult catechists, and the other 10 sessions with the total community, meaning the catechists and our friends. Each adult catechist joins with a friend on a one-on-one basis during our total community sessions. In place of the more traditional forms of religious education, the process of SPRED is symbolic catechesis based, and this same process is offered throughout the archdiocese, the country, and the world.
The SPRED ministry invites each of us to walk together with a friend on a journey of faith to discover God in the presence of one another. YOU are invited to join in this incredible ministry, and can do so by becoming a Parish Chairperson, a Leader Catechist, an Activity Catechist, or a Helper Catechist. Anyone who is 21 years or older, and is willing to share faith and friendship with others can volunteer. No prior experience with working with persons with developmental disabilities is needed, and all training is offered through the SPRED office.
If you are interested in becoming involved with, or have any questions regarding our QAS SPRED program, please feel free to call Sandra Dilla-Hammer, at 773-426-8356, or email at dillapickle3@att.net.
Children and adults with disabilities have the right to grow in faith…why don’t YOU come on this awesome journey with our SPRED family to find God in everyday moments.
