Dear Parish Family, “With disabilities you can become Holy Persons, you can reach the high God which God has reserved for all human beings, you are the creatures of His love.”( St John Paul II) Be it a physical or psychological disability, those who suffer need our love, respect, patience and acceptance. At times it is difficult to comprehend the pain our brothers and sisters experience. Many illnesses are invisible, they may be cognitive, learning issues or of chronic nature. My own granddaughter is beautiful on the inside and out, and has no appearance of her gestational Lyme disease, yet she suffers with her own disabilities. We often think of Blessed Solanus Casey and the miracles God performed through the intersession of this of holy man. Have you heard of St Andre Bessette from Montreal? He is a saint who was very sickly as a child, was encouraged by his Pastor as a young man to attend the seminary, and later became the “doorkeeper” of Notre Dame College. He is known as Brother Andre’. He could never understand the tremendous gift of healing he had for the many people who came to him. He prayed through the intercession of St Joseph and later became known as the “miracle man of Montreal.” Think of Saint Andre as another intercessor for those with disabilities. Our brothers and sisters with disabilities are a gift and opportunity to show our love and goodness. The term “special needs” encompasses every age. These are special people and it is vital that we remember to help and encourage them in every way. We must not discourage or disable their joys. My mother instilled that any incapacity should only be shown respect and inspiration - their talents, and insights surpass our understanding! We never know, when we may need to be the recipient of someone’s kindness. Let us remember the words of St Rose of Lima, “When we serve the poor and the sick, we serve Jesus.” Blessings, Mary Jo