Search
-
Contact Us
-
Father Robert BurkotFrRobertsaintelizabeths.orgParochial Vicar -
Deacon John LaDucaJLaducasaintelizabeths.orgDeacon
-
-
Special Needs Ministry at Saint Elizabeth
A place of welcome, belonging, faith, and friendship
At Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, we believe that every person is a beloved child of God. We are launching new ministries and partnerships to better welcome individuals with intellectual, developmental, and sensory needs, along with their families, into the full life of our parish:
• A monthly Sensory-Friendly Mass, designed to be welcoming, reverent, and flexible
• Friends for Life, a faith and friendship community for adults age 22 and older
• Young Life Capernaum Serving teens and young adults with disabilities, ages 14-22
• Sacramental preparation for persons with disabilities
Whether you are a family looking for community, a young person seeking friendship, or a parishioner who feels called to volunteer, we invite you to learn more below.
You belong here. Your family belongs here. Your loved one belongs here.
To join our email list or to submit questions about this ministry, please submit the form at the bottom of this page.
Visit the Archdiocese of Newark's website HERE for additional information and resources.
________________________________________
Sensory-Friendly Mass
The next Sensory Friendly Mass is Sat. June 27 at 4 PM.
Click HERE to open the Social Story for Mass
A welcoming monthly Mass for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families
For some individuals and families, attending a typical parish Mass can be challenging because of sensory, developmental, behavioral, or communication needs. Our Sensory-Friendly Mass is offered with you in mind. Come as you are.
What makes this Mass different
• A welcoming, judgment-free atmosphere
• Freedom to move, use fidgets, or step away for a break
• A shorter, simpler, teaching-style format
• Clear explanations and visual supports
• A gentle approach to music and sound
• Recognition that participation looks different for each person
This is not a drop-off program. Families attend Mass together.
To join our email list or to submit questions about this ministry, please submit the form at the bottom of this page.
________________________________________
Friends for Life
A faith, friendship, and community ministry for adults age 22 and older
When young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities age out of youth-based programs, opportunities for community can become harder to find. Friends for Life is a new parish ministry created to fill that gap. It is a welcoming, parish-based community where each person is known by name and celebrated for who they are.
Who it's for Adults age 22 and older with intellectual or developmental disabilities, along with the families and caregivers who walk alongside them.
What to expect Gatherings will include faith sharing and prayer, dinner or light refreshments, music, games, service opportunities, and time to build lasting friendships. Families and caregivers will also find a community of mutual support.
How to get involved There are two ways to join us:
1. Participate. Young adults and families interested in attending can complete our interest form.
2. Volunteer. Parishioners and community members are invited to help create a joyful, welcoming environment.
To learn more about Friends for Life or get involved, visit https://linktr.ee/ylcapernaum.
________________________________________
Young Life Capernaum
A joyful community for teens and young adults with disabilities, ages 14-22
Saint Elizabeth is proud to partner with Young Life Capernaum, that creates fun, faith-filled experiences for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through clubs, camps, and gatherings, Capernaum gives teens and young adults the chance to be celebrated for who they are, to laugh, sing, learn about God's love, and build genuine friendships.
Our partnership with the Bergen and Lakeland chapters allows us to host and co-host events at Saint Elizabeth, refer families to their programs, and support their mission through volunteers and parish resources. It is a beautiful complement to our own ministries and a wonderful next step for families looking for additional community.
Ways to engage
• Attend a club or event in the Bergen or Lakeland area
• Volunteer as a leader or buddy
• Support the mission through prayer or giving
To learn more about Young Life Capernaum or get involved, visit https://linktr.ee/ylcapernaum.
________________________________________
To join our email list or to submit questions about this ministry, please submit the form.