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In a meaningful step toward building a more inclusive and compassionate faith community, San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish in San Pedro City opened “A Place for Our Special Ones,” a dedicated room within the church created especially for children and those with special needs.
The Kids’ Room is a glass-enclosed space situated within the church designed to offer a serene, comfortable, and welcoming environment for families to join in the liturgy, especially the celebration of Holy Mass. This thoughtful addition allows children—especially those with conditions that may cause involuntary sounds or movements—to participate in the Holy Mass without fear of disturbing others or feeling out of place.
Parents, guardians, and caregivers can accompany their children in this peaceful setting while remaining connected to the liturgy. The design ensures that while the children have freedom to express themselves, they are still very much part of the Eucharistic celebration.
“This initiative is not just about creating a space,” parish leaders shared. “It is a reflection of the heart of the Church—a way of saying to our special children and their families: You are welcome here. You are important. You belong.”
For many parents of children with special needs, attending liturgical celebrations can be challenging. The worry that their child’s natural expressions might be misinterpreted often leads to feelings of isolation. By providing a safe and understanding environment, SanLorenzo Ruiz Parish hopes to ease these concerns, allowing families to come to church with joy and peace.
More than a structural addition, “A Place for Our Special Ones” embodies the Church’s mission to embrace diversity and extend Christ’s love to all. It sends a strong message that every child is a blessing and every family is an essential part of the parish community.
“This room is a quiet embrace of understanding, compassion, and hope,” said one parishioner. “It’s about making sure no one feels left out of our worship life.”
The parish envisions the Kids’ Room as a place where children can witness and grow in the faith alongside a parish family that supports and understands them. By fostering such inclusivity, the church strengthens its role not only as a place of worship but also as a home where joy, reverence, and acceptance thrive.
Parish leaders hope the project will inspire other communities to find ways to welcome those with unique needs.As the Church, they believe it is their mission to open their hearts wider, recognize the beauty in diversity, and celebrate the presence of each person asa gift.
Through this initiative, SanLorenzo Ruiz Parish reaffirms its commitment to being more than just a place where Mass is celebrated—it is a spiritual home where every individual, regardless of ability, is embraced in God’s love.
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