As April marks Autism Awareness Month, the Talking Catholic podcast travels to Ocean City to highlight a powerful example of welcome in action at Saint Damien Parish’s Mass of Welcome and Inclusion.

Cohosts Jen Mauro and Mike Walsh are joined by Chris Devaney, who brings nearly 50 years of experience serving special needs individuals, and Nicole Keefer, Executive Director of VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services for the Diocese of Camden. Together, they share how this growing ministry helps individuals with autism, Down syndrome, and other special needs fully participate in parish life—including receiving the sacraments and serving in liturgical roles.

The conversation explores how accompaniment, creativity, and a committed parish community have opened doors for families who once felt isolated from church life—and how this model can inspire other parishes to do the same. As Chris notes, the most powerful message families carry home from these celebrations is simple but profound: you are welcome here.

Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts can be found, at https://talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic, or catch us on Domestic Church Media radio (https://domesticchurchmedia.org) Sundays at 11 AM or Mondays at 4 PM.

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