Groundbreaking Prayer Book Tailored for Adults with Down Syndrome and Intellectual Disabilities Released by Word on Fire
In a significant step towards inclusivity and spiritual empowerment, Word on Fire, the publishing company founded by Bishop Robert Barron, has unveiled a new book designed specifically to aid adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities in their prayer life. Released on Down Syndrome Awareness Day, "Let Us Pray: Catholic Prayers for All Abilities" aims to address the unique needs of this community, who are disproportionately affected by abortion, by providing them with accessible and engaging resources for developing a deeper relationship with God.
Authored by Mark Bradford, a dedicated advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities, the book offers a collection of simplified traditional prayers, presented in a format designed for easy comprehension. Key features include large print for enhanced readability, an accessible font tailored for individuals with dyslexia and other reading challenges, and visually appealing imagery that resonates with adults.
The publication of "Let Us Pray" arrives at a crucial time, given the alarming statistics surrounding prenatal diagnoses of Down syndrome. Studies indicate that between 67 and 87 percent of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome prenatally are aborted, highlighting the urgent need to provide support and affirmation for both individuals with Down syndrome and their families. With an estimated 250,000 people with Down syndrome in the United States and millions more living with other intellectual challenges, the lack of prayer resources tailored to their needs has been a significant gap.
Archbishop Edward Kurtz of Louisville, who penned the book’s foreword, emphasizes the universal call to prayer, stating, "Prayer is meant for every one of us." Drawing from his personal experience growing up with a brother with Down syndrome, Kurtz describes the book as a "beautiful gift" for those seeking to deepen their faith but lacking the necessary tools to do so.
Mark Bradford’s inspiration for "Let Us Pray" stemmed from his observation that his 20-year-old son, Thomas Augustine, who has Down syndrome, was limited to using prayer resources designed for young children. Recognizing the absence of appropriate materials for adults with intellectual disabilities, Bradford embarked on a mission to create a resource that would foster a love of prayer and provide a sense of dignity and empowerment.
"I want this to be a resource that provides something beautiful to encourage adults with disabilities, and really anyone whose reading level is around the 3rd to 6th grade, to develop a habit of prayer using a book that was prepared just for them," Bradford explained.
The book’s design is meticulously crafted to cater to the specific needs of its target audience. The visually striking yet age-appropriate imagery, easy-to-read text, and engaging layout are all intended to facilitate the development of a regular prayer practice. The chosen typeface, created by a Dutch typographer specializing in dyslexia-friendly fonts, further enhances accessibility.
"Let Us Pray" is divided into four comprehensive sections: "Making a Habit of Prayer," "Getting More Involved at Sunday Mass," "Devotions," and "Prayers for Special Times." The latter section includes prayers for various life situations, such as "Prayers for Your Life’s Purpose" and "Prayers When Someone You Love Has Died or Is Dying," offering solace and guidance during challenging moments.
Recognizing the disproportionate impact of abortion on individuals with Down syndrome, the book includes a section on "Prayers to End Abortion." This section addresses the difficult reality that many Down syndrome babies are selected for abortion due to their disability, urging readers to pray for expectant mothers facing such decisions. The book emphasizes the need for compassion and support, stating, "They need us to pray for them every day so that they say yes, just like Mary did, and have their special baby to love."
Furthermore, "Let Us Pray" includes a dedicated space for readers to write down their own prayers, encouraging personal reflection and a deeper connection with God.
Despite the prevailing stigmas surrounding Down syndrome and other learning disabilities, Bradford hopes that "Let Us Pray" will convey the message that "EVERY human person made in God’s image is called into a relationship with him." He underscores the potential for individuals with intellectual disabilities to cultivate rich and meaningful prayer lives, emphasizing the importance of providing them with the resources and encouragement they need to nurture their relationship with their creator.
"Those living with intellectual disabilities can have a rich and fruitful prayer life," he said. "That needs to be honored with resources that encourage prayer and the development of that relationship with their creator that happens through prayer."
Word on Fire’s release of "Let Us Pray" marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming Church, one that recognizes the spiritual needs and potential of all its members, regardless of their intellectual abilities. The book promises to be a valuable resource for individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities, their families, caregivers, and anyone seeking to deepen their prayer life in a simple and accessible way.
