February 6, 2013
Pastoral Ministry with Deaf Catholics
The Diocese of Rockville Centre continues to provide Sign Language Masses and Interpreted Masses for the deaf community. (You can view, print, or download schedule here.)
In addition, services for the deaf and hearing impaired can be accessed through Msgr. Thomas Costa (v) 516-931-4351 (text) 516-313-7259. Sister Joan Mary Finn OP (c) 718-746-8759 provides interpreting services and ASL classes.
The Newsletter from the Hearing Loss Association of America-North Shore Long Island can be found here.
Children who are deaf or hard of hearing are included in parish faith formation classes for sacramental preparation whenever possible. Please check with your local parish for information. Materials for sacramental preparation of the deaf are available through National Catholic Office for the Deaf. These include:
“My First Eucharist…A Signed and Closed Captioned Sacramental Preparation for Deaf Children,” National Catholic Office of the Deaf. 301-577-1684 (V). 301-577-4184 (TTY).
“Sacrament of Reconciliation…A Program in American Sign Language,” National Catholic Office of the Deaf. Contact: info@ncod.org.