Witten/Herdecke, Germany. An interdisciplinary project breaks down barriers to religion and spirituality.
Spiritual practice and religious participation are not a given for people with cognitive impairments. Many prayers, church services, spiritual inquiries, and congregational belonging are often inaccessible because the language, structures, and programs associated with them lack accessibility. An interdisciplinary project involving the Chair of Medical Theory, Integrative and Anthroposophic Medicine at Witten/Herdecke University and the Protestant and Catholic churches therefore aims to develop practical resources to foster greater religious participation. This collaboration has produced two resources designed for individuals requiring assistance as well as their support staff. One such resource includes a guide written in accessible langauge that explains how to provide support that is sensitive to religious needs. It also lists relevant resources and contacts for various areas of life, such as communication and mobility. A set of cards is designed to facilitate conversation, helping users identify spiritual and religious needs and translate them into actionable steps. Both resources are available online free of charge.
More Katholische Kirche Bistum Limburg
Translation Paula Boslau
Image Giulia Veneziano
