The Archbishop’s Curia has launched its vision document towards the more inclusive participation of people with disabilities in Church.

The document, presented by Fr Martin Micallef during a media briefing yesterday morning, is based on provisions given by the Maltese diocesan synod and deals with the participation of

people with disabilities.

It includes proposals for better accessibility and inclusion in specific sectors – the parish, catechism, the liturgy and the sacraments, education in Church schools, the life and work of the archdiocese and residential homes run by the Church.

The eight-chapter document goes into great detail as regards those with disabilities as active members of the Catholic Church from the moment they are born into their families.

By means of the document, the Church aims to instil the idea that people with disabilities must be given equal opportunities whenever this is possible. It also aims to improve physical accessibility to as many churches as possible and to offer assistance to those with disabilities in the community.

The curia is working closely with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (KNPD), Agenzija Sapport and a number of non-governmental organisations dealing with people with disabilities, in order to implement its vision document.

Fr Micallef said the document should be beneficial to every member of the Church and every action that will help improve accessibility and inclusion in this regard should lead to a Church that is always better guided by Christ.“The implementation of the document depends on each and every one of us. A lot has been done so far. Together we can do much more,” said Fr Micallef.