The Faith and Light Ministry is an ecumenical group of people with developmental disabilities and their families and friends who meet to share scripture and pray together, to share their gifts and graces and to develop friendships that support and celebrate each other. The group consists of all ages with different degrees of disability. Faith and Light is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.

Cerebral Palsy Guide has compiled the most in-depth resources nationwide to help guide and serve all families with disabilities caused by physical birth injuries: cerebralpalsyguide.com/community/parents-caregivers.

Shining Christ's love on all

Some ministries are social. Some are pastoral. Many are both. But Faith and Light is a virtual lifeline.

This ministry is for people with developmental disabilities and their families and friends. Together, they pray, develop friendships and share their gifts and graces, said ministry leader Janet Grzeszkowiak.

“Over these 20-plus years, we have formed friendships that will last a lifetime,” said Joy Fuchs, who founded Faith and Light at St. Ann’s with Father John Welch.

One of the annual highlights for Faith and Light is the Mass of Inclusion. Held during a regular weekend Mass, it is an opportunity to raise awareness about persons with disabilities, Grzeszkowiak said. The ministry meets regularly through the year and participates in other special events, including Stations of the Cross on Good Friday.

“I have the unique experience of participating in Faith and Light as a volunteer and a person with disabilities,” said Alison Loyd. “Faith and Light enables me to live my vocation and ministry in a beautiful way. There is an unparalleled joy and radiant beauty in this ministry!”

“Faith and Light is like an investment in yourself,” added Sharon Smith. “It can really raise your spirits on down days. We come together as a community with others who have been and are in the same boat.”