Welcome to the blog post dedicated to an extraordinary event organized by the International Academy of Catholic Leaders. On September 28, this esteemed institution will host an event focused on promoting the participation of individuals with disabilities within the Church. Inspired by Pope Francis’ message in Fratelli Tutti, the event aims to raise awareness and advocate for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the ecclesial community.
The event will bring together a panel of experts who will offer insightful reflections on disability and its integration within the Church. José Antonio Rosas, the general director of the International Academy of Catholic Leaders, emphasizes the significance of this initiative as a stepping stone towards genuine inclusion within the Church. He expressed, “We want this initiative to foster a culture of participation and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, aligning with the Pope’s vision of a Church that welcomes everyone.”
Distinguished speakers at the event will include Archbishop Emeritus of Madrid, Carlos Osoro; former director of the National Rehabilitation Service of the Argentine Republic, Grisela Olivera; former councilor of the Madrid City Council, Carmen Sánchez; and the co-founder of Don Bosco on Wheels, Aldo Chavarría, among others.
Carmen Sánchez views this event as a crucial platform to reaffirm the dignity and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. She stated, “The International Conference on Disability: Pending Challenges in the Church will address fundamental issues such as dignity, inclusion, and social justice through a faith-based lens. Regardless of our abilities or disabilities, we all possess intrinsic dignity as creations in the image and likeness of God.”
Sánchez also highlighted the role of Pope Francis in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. She quoted Pope Francis, who stated in 2016, “The world will not be better when it is made up only of supposedly ‘perfect’ people, but when solidarity, mutual acceptance, and respect for all grow.”
The event will take place at various times based on different regions:
- 09:00 to 11:00 (Mexico – Central America)
- 10:00 to 12:00 (Peru – Colombia – Ecuador)
- 11:00 to 13:00 (Bolivia – Venezuela – Dominican Republic – New York – Washington – Paraguay)
- 12:00 to 14:00 (Chile – Argentina – Brazil – Uruguay)
- 16:00 to 18:00 (Portugal – Equatorial Guinea)
- 17:00 to 19:00 (Spain)
To participate in the event, registration is required at the following link: www.liderescatolicos.net/discapacidad/
The International Academy of Catholic Leaders, operating in 50 dioceses across 14 countries, has equipped over 35,000 students with essential knowledge through both in-person and virtual programs. It stands as a cornerstone for training in the Social Doctrine of the Church.
